URGENT UPDATE: A significant nationwide recall has just been issued for several raw pet food products from Viva Raw due to potential contamination with salmonella and listeria. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that these products were distributed directly to customers across the United States and select retailers between July 2 and August 21, 2023.
The recalled items, packaged as frozen 1-pound bricks in clear vacuum bags, have raised serious health concerns for both pets and humans. The affected states include New York, Illinois, South Carolina, Florida, Kansas, California, and Arizona.
This contamination poses a direct threat to animal health, with symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea potentially affecting pets that consume these products. The FDA warns that humans handling the contaminated food without proper hygiene could also experience severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and fever.
Key health risks: Pregnant women, children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to listeria infections, which could lead to miscarriage or severe illness.
While no illnesses related to this recall have been reported to date, the FDA emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action. Pet owners are strongly advised to dispose of the affected products safely, ensuring that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access them. Additionally, consumers should refrain from selling or donating the recalled food.
For those who have purchased the affected items, the FDA recommends washing and sanitizing all pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers thoroughly. To seek a refund for any remaining product, customers can contact Viva Raw directly at [email protected].
This urgent recall underscores the critical need for pet owners to remain vigilant about the safety of their pets’ food. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
