- Pet foods from the Midwestern Pet Company are under a voluntary recall.
- About 70 dogs died and more than 80 became ill.
- The food was found to have dangerous levels of aflatoxins, which are produced by fungi.
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The FDA is warning veterinarians and animal owners that Midwestern Pet Foods’ Sportmix pet food may be toxic.
Dog food can contain dangerous levels of aflatoxins, a toxin created by certain types of fungi. So far, 70 dogs have died and more than 80 have fallen ill after eating Sportmix foods, although not all cases are confirmed by aflatoxins.
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Midwestern Pet Foods has issued a voluntary recall of food produced at the Oklahoma plant, and owners must stop giving pets food immediately and consult a veterinarian. They can also report suspected cases of aflatoxin poisoning to the FDA, which is investigating Midwestern Pet Foods in cooperation with departments of agriculture in 10 states.
Aflatoxin poisoning can cause “sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice (yellowish hue in the eyes, gums or skin due to liver damage) and / or diarrhea” according to the FDA. It can also result in liver damage and long-term death. No disease has been reported in cats or humans, The New York Times reported, although it is recommended that people wash their hands after handling.
The pet food company issued a voluntary recall for the first time in December, when tests showed high levels of aflatoxin. On January 11, Midwestern Pet Foods expanded the recall to include other products, and the full list can be found on the FDA website.
“As a fourth generation family business, Midwestern Pet Foods has been committed to ensuring that our products are safe and nutritious for almost 100 years. Until recently, throughout our long history, we have never had a product recall,” the company said in a statement. “We continue a thorough review of our facilities and practices in full cooperation with the FDA in an effort to better serve our customers and parents of pets who place their trust in us.”
MPF has listed the codes for all affected feeds here.