Midwestern Pet Foods expands recall after more than 70 dogs die, FDA says

Midwestern Pet Foods expanded its recall of certain feed products due to the potentially fatal levels of aflatoxin after more than 70 dogs died and 80 fell ill from consuming the product, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in an updated notice Monday. market.

The company is now recalling all corn-containing feed products that were manufactured at the company’s Oklahoma plant and have an expiration date on or before July 9, 2022. This includes 19 products that “may still be in store shelves, online or at pet owners’ homes, “according to the FDA.

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Aflatoxin is a by-product of the fungus that has the ability to grow on corn and other grains, which are commonly used as ingredients in pet food. At very high levels, “aflatoxins can cause illness and death in pets,” said the FDA.

Midwestern initially issued a recall of nine different batches of Sportmix dry dog ​​and cat food last month after the Missouri Department of Agriculture found “very high levels” of the toxin in several samples at the company’s Oklahoma plant.

The voluntary recall was initiated after the FDA received reports that at least 28 dogs died and eight became ill after consuming the collected feed.

However, not all of these cases have been officially confirmed as aflatoxin poisoning, the FDA said.

Still, the agency and Midwestern Pet Foods are asking pet owners to safely dispose of products due to the toxin, which may be present even if the mold is not visible, according to the agency.

PET FOOD REALED AFTER THE DEATHS OF 28 DOGS, FDA SAYS

Pets that have been poisoned by the toxin may appear slow and have a loss of appetite. They may also experience vomiting, jaundice (yellowish hue in the eyes or gums due to liver damage) and / or diarrhea, the FDA said. In some cases, pets can also suffer liver damage, even without symptoms.

Unlike people, pets are “highly susceptible” to aflatoxin poisoning because they usually eat the same food, according to the FDA.

“If a pet’s food contains aflatoxin, the toxin can accumulate in the animal’s system as they continue to eat the same food,” said the FDA.

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The Midwest is also asking customers to wash and sanitize pet bowls and areas where food has been stored. The company is also encouraging retailers to contact customers who have purchased the affected products.

Pet owners should also consult their veterinarians about any concerns, especially if the pet is showing symptoms, the FDA said.

To date, the FDA says there is no evidence that handling food poses any risk to pet owners, although they are encouraged to wash their hands after contact.

RECOVERY OF DOG FOOD AT HIGH LEVELS OF EXPANSION OF THE MOLD PRODUCT: FDA

The investigation into the matter is ongoing. The FDA will continue to work with veterinarians and state partners to monitor suspected cases of aflatoxin poisoning and plans to conduct follow-up activities at the manufacturing facility.

The agency will update the public when more information becomes available.

Midwestern Pet Foods did not immediately respond to FOX Business’s request for comment.