FDA Issues Recall Alert
The FDA recall on dog food has pet owners across the country on high alert. Viva Raw, a pet food company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, announced it is pulling several dog and cat food products from shelves due to possible salmonella and listeria contamination. This recall impacts both households and retailers nationwide.
Products Included in the Recall
The recall involves two major lots:
Lot 21495: Viva Ground Beef for Dogs; Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies
Lot 21975: Viva Ground Chicken for Dogs; Viva Chunked Chicken for Dogs; Viva Chicken for Cats; Viva Pure Chicken
These products were sold directly to customers across the U.S. and through retail partners in seven states—Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, New York, and South Carolina.
Why the Recall Matters
The FDA warns that salmonella and listeria pose risks to both pets and humans. Pets consuming contaminated food may show symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite.
Humans handling the products also face danger if they fail to wash their hands properly. Possible health effects include nausea, fever, abdominal cramps, and in rare cases, severe complications like endocarditis or miscarriage in pregnant women.
How to Identify the Products
The recalled items were sold as frozen one-pound bricks in clear vacuum packaging. Customers can check the lot numbers printed at the top of the packaging to confirm if their products are affected.
What Pet Owners Should Do
Authorities urge customers to take immediate action:
Dispose of recalled food safely, keeping it away from children, pets, and wildlife.
Do not sell, donate, or feed the recalled items to any animals.
Clean and sanitize all food bowls, storage containers, and surfaces exposed to the product.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling any recalled pet food.
If your pet shows symptoms after consuming these products, contact a veterinarian right away. Similarly, any humans experiencing illness should seek medical attention promptly.
Discovery of the Contamination
Routine testing by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture uncovered the potential contamination. As of now, no illnesses in pets or humans have been reported in connection to the affected lots.
Refunds and Customer Support
Customers who purchased the recalled food can request refunds or ask questions directly from Viva Raw.
Email: info@vivarawpets.com
Phone/Text: (919) 371-8882, available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET
The Bottom Line
The dog food recall highlights the importance of vigilance when it comes to pet health and food safety. With salmonella and listeria risks, the FDA urges quick action to protect both pets and their owners. Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest health and safety updates.
