1/31/25

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – A pet food manufacturer has issued a recall due to Salmonella contamination.

Blue Ridge Beef recalled 5,700 pounds of its 2-pound log Natural Mix pet food. The affected lot number is N25/12/31, and the UPC is 854298001054. The recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

Salmonella can pose a risk to both animals and humans. Pets infected with Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. In some cases, pets may only show decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected pets can also be carriers and transmit the bacteria to other animals or humans. Pet owners are advised to contact their veterinarian if their pet has consumed the recalled product and shows symptoms.

Humans handling contaminated pet products are also at risk, especially if they do not thoroughly wash their hands after contact. Symptoms in humans can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare cases, Salmonella can lead to more severe conditions such as arterial infections and arthritis. Individuals experiencing symptoms after handling the product should seek medical attention.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture collected samples of the product on January 8, 2025, and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture Food and Drug Protection Laboratory confirmed the presence of Salmonella. The FDA notified Blue Ridge Beef of the positive test result on January 27, 2025.

The recalled products were distributed between January 3 and January 24, 2025, and were sold primarily in retail stores across Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Rhode Island.

Consumers are urged to return the product to the place of purchase or dispose of it in a manner that prevents access by children, pets, and wildlife. The recalled product should not be sold, donated, or fed to animals. Pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers should be washed and sanitized, and hands should be thoroughly cleaned after handling the recalled food.