Freshpet Dog Food Recall: Everything You Need to Know 🐾⚠️
Freshpet has announced a voluntary recall of a specific lot of its Select Fresh From the Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe due to potential Salmonella contamination. This recall affects 4.5 lb. bags with a sell-by date of 10/29/22 and a UPC code of 627975011673. A small portion of this lot, initially designated for destruction, was mistakenly shipped to select retailers in limited areas, including Walmart stores in Alabama and Georgia, as well as Target stores and other locations in several Northeastern states.
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About the Freshpet Recall
- Which product is affected? 🚨 Freshpet Select Fresh From the Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe (4.5 lb.).
- Why was it recalled? 🦠 Potential Salmonella contamination.
- Is my dog at risk? 🐶 Symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting.
- What should I do if I have this product? 🗑️ Stop using it and dispose of it safely.
- How to report or get a refund? 📞 Contact Freshpet at 1.800.285.0563 or visit their website.
🚨 Which Freshpet Product Is Affected by the Recall?
The recall involves Freshpet Select Fresh From the Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe in 4.5 lb. bags with:
- UPC Code: 627975011673
- Sell-By Date: 10/29/22
- Lot Code: L3 (found on the back of the bag)
If you have this product, stop feeding it to your dog immediately. Salmonella poses a health risk not just to pets but also to humans, especially children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Question | Answer | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Product Affected 🛒 | Fresh From the Kitchen Chicken Recipe | Check UPC and sell-by date on the packaging 🏷️ |
Lot Code 📦 | L3 | Look on the back of the bag for details 🔍 |
Action Required 🚫 | Stop use and dispose safely | Wash hands thoroughly after handling 🧼 |
🦠 Why Was Freshpet Recalled? Potential Salmonella Contamination!
The recall was triggered due to the detection of Salmonella in a specific lot of Freshpet food. Salmonella can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. Symptoms of Salmonella infection in dogs include:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Infected dogs can also spread the bacteria to humans and other pets. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Risk | Symptom | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Salmonella 🦠 | Vomiting, diarrhea, fever | Contact vet if symptoms appear 📞 |
Human Risk 🧍 | Nausea, abdominal cramps | Use gloves when handling suspected food 🧤 |
Cross-Contamination 🌐 | Can spread to other animals/humans | Disinfect all surfaces exposed to the food 🧹 |
🗑️ What Should You Do If You Have This Product? Stop Using It Immediately!
If you have this product, follow these steps:
- Dispose of the food safely—do not feed it to your dog.
- Disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled product.
- Contact Freshpet for a refund or further instructions:
- Call 1.800.285.0563 (Mon-Fri, 9 am–9 pm EDT; Sat-Sun, 9 am–1 pm EDT).
- Visit the Freshpet website for more details.
Action | Details | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Disposal 🗑️ | Stop feeding and discard | Use sealed trash bags to prevent contamination ♻️ |
Refund Process 💸 | Call Freshpet helpline | Have UPC and sell-by date handy for faster processing 📋 |
Disinfection 🧼 | Clean affected surfaces thoroughly | Use pet-safe cleaning agents for safety 🐾 |
🐶 Is My Dog at Risk? What Symptoms Should I Watch For?
Dogs exposed to contaminated food can develop Salmonella infection. Be vigilant for symptoms like:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
Even asymptomatic dogs can spread the infection to humans or other pets, making it crucial to stop feeding the recalled food and consult a vet if you suspect exposure.
Symptom | Severity | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Lethargy 💤 | Moderate to severe | Monitor activity levels closely 🐾 |
Diarrhea 🚽 | Moderate to severe | Ensure plenty of water to prevent dehydration 💧 |
Fever 🌡️ | Moderate | Use a rectal thermometer for accurate temperature readings 📏 |
Stay updated with any further announcements from Freshpet and the FDA. For additional details, consult the FDA recall notice or reach out to Freshpet’s helpline.
Feel free to ask more questions about this recall and how to keep your pets safe! 🐾
Comment 1: “What should I do if my dog ate the recalled Freshpet food?” 🐶🚨
If your dog consumed the recalled Freshpet food, here’s how to handle it:
- Monitor for symptoms: Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
- Contact your vet: If symptoms develop or your dog seems unwell, seek veterinary advice immediately.
- Prevent further exposure: Safely dispose of the remaining food and thoroughly disinfect feeding bowls and surfaces to avoid cross-contamination.
Salmonella can also affect humans. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the food or cleaning up after your pet.
Step | Action | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Monitor symptoms 👀 | Watch for illness signs | Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior 📋 |
Contact vet 🩺 | If symptoms arise | Call your vet promptly for guidance 📞 |
Disinfect area 🧼 | Clean all surfaces | Use pet-safe cleaners to prevent spread 🧴 |
Comment 2: “How can I be sure other Freshpet products are safe?” 🐾🔍
Only one specific lot of Freshpet Select Fresh From the Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe is affected by the recall. However, you can take these precautions:
- Check packaging: Confirm UPC, lot code, and sell-by date match the recalled batch.
- Inspect for recalls regularly: Follow Freshpet’s website or the FDA for updated recall lists.
- Be vigilant: Observe your pet’s reaction to any new batch of food and contact Freshpet with concerns.
If uncertain, consult your vet before continuing with Freshpet products.
Precaution | Action | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Check labels 🏷️ | Verify codes before feeding | Cross-check UPC and lot info regularly 🔍 |
Follow recalls 📢 | Stay informed via Freshpet/FDA | Sign up for alerts for faster updates 📬 |
Observe reactions 👀 | Monitor with new batches | Switch brands if concerns arise 🐕 |
Comment 3: “How does Salmonella affect humans from dog food?” 🦠🧍
Humans can contract Salmonella from handling contaminated dog food or surfaces exposed to it. Symptoms in humans include:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Fever and chills
Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are more vulnerable. Always use protective gloves when handling suspected food and wash hands thoroughly after cleanup.
If you suspect infection, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Symptom | Severity | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Nausea, vomiting 🤢 | Mild to severe | Hydrate and seek medical advice if symptoms persist 💧 |
Abdominal pain 🩺 | Moderate | Monitor symptoms closely; see a doctor if severe 📞 |
Fever, chills 🌡️ | Moderate to severe | Rest and consult a healthcare provider for advice 🛌 |
Comment 4: “How often do Freshpet recalls happen?” 📅🔄
Freshpet recalls are rare but do occur occasionally, often due to potential contamination or safety concerns identified through internal checks or regulatory alerts. The company emphasizes voluntary recalls to maintain safety and transparency.
To stay informed:
- Subscribe to recall alerts from Freshpet and the FDA.
- Check product batches regularly to ensure safety.
Most recalls are precautionary and affect limited products or lots.
Recall Frequency | Details | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Rare 🕒 | Precautionary recalls occur occasionally | Stay informed with email alerts from FDA or Freshpet 📧 |
Reasons ⚠️ | Usually contamination-related | Check packaging details often for updated info 🏷️ |
Precautions 🛡️ | Take quick action if a recall is announced | Switch brands temporarily if unsure 🐶 |
Comment 5: “Are there any signs of contamination I can check for at home?” 🏡🔍
While not all contamination signs are visible, there are a few things to watch for before feeding Freshpet or any other dog food:
- Odor change: If the food has a foul or unusual smell, discard it immediately.
- Appearance: Check for any signs of mold, discoloration, or unusual textures.
- Consistency: If the food is unusually soft, slimy, or clumpy, it might indicate spoilage.
Even if no changes are visible, any food from the recalled batch should be discarded.
Sign | What to Check | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Odor change 👃 | Unusual or rotten smell | Always sniff before serving food 🐕 |
Appearance 👀 | Mold or discoloration | Inspect each new bag carefully 🔍 |
Consistency 🏋️ | Soft/slimy texture | Discard if unusual textures are found 🗑️ |
Comment 6: “What should I feed my dog as a temporary replacement?” 🐾🍽️
If you need a temporary alternative, consider these safe options:
- Boiled chicken or turkey: Lightly cooked, plain meat is easily digestible.
- Rice or oatmeal: Gentle on the stomach, these carbs can be mixed with protein.
- Canned dog food: Ensure it’s a reputable brand and check the ingredients for compatibility with your dog’s dietary needs.
Transition gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Replacement | How to Prepare | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Boiled meat 🍗 | Cook thoroughly, no seasoning | Serve small portions to avoid sudden dietary changes 🥄 |
Rice/oatmeal 🍚 | Cooked soft, no additives | Mix with lean protein for balanced nutrition 🥣 |
Canned dog food 🥫 | Choose a high-quality brand | Consult your vet if unsure about options 🩺 |
Comment 7: “What if I can’t find the lot code on my Freshpet bag?” 🏷️🔄
If you can’t locate the lot code on the packaging, take these steps:
- Inspect different areas: Lot codes may appear on the back, bottom, or side seams of the bag.
- Contact Freshpet: Call their helpline at 1.800.285.0563 for guidance. Provide product details, including the UPC code and expiration date, to confirm if it’s part of the recall.
- Dispose of questionable products: If in doubt, discard the food to ensure safety.
Step | How to Do It | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Inspect packaging 🔍 | Check back, bottom, sides | Use a flashlight for better visibility 💡 |
Call Freshpet ☎️ | Provide details for verification | Have UPC and expiration ready before calling 📋 |
Discard if unsure 🗑️ | Err on the side of caution | Dispose safely if lot code remains unclear 🚫 |
Comment 8: “Can I still use Freshpet products not included in the recall?” 🥩✅
Yes, other Freshpet products not listed in the recall are considered safe to use. Follow these safety steps:
- Double-check packaging: Ensure it doesn’t match the recalled lot information.
- Monitor your dog: As a precaution, observe your pet’s behavior for any signs of discomfort after eating.
- Follow regular feeding practices: Store food properly and serve fresh to minimize contamination risks.
Always store Freshpet products in the refrigerator and discard if expired.
Product Safety | Action | 💡 Tip |
---|---|---|
Verify packaging 🏷️ | Ensure no recall match | Compare UPC, lot code, and expiration date carefully 🔍 |
Monitor dog’s reaction 🐕 | Watch for symptoms | Stop feeding if any discomfort appears 📞 |
Store correctly 🥶 | Keep refrigerated | Seal bags properly to maintain freshness ❄️ |