Dog owners in eight U.S. states are being urged to check their pet food after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for 5,700 pounds of Blue Ridge Beef raw dog food due to Salmonella contamination.
The recall affects Blue Ridge Beef’s “Natural Mix” raw dog food, which tested positive for Salmonella earlier this week. The bacterium can cause severe illness in both pets and humans, making this recall a serious health concern.
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Why This Recall Matters
Salmonella contamination is a major health risk that can lead to severe food poisoning in humans and serious gastrointestinal issues in pets. The bacteria can spread through direct contact with contaminated food or indirect exposure to surfaces that have come in contact with the product.
This is not the first time Blue Ridge Beef has faced a recall—in December 2024, its “Puppy Mix” product was also pulled from shelves due to Salmonella contamination.
The latest recall highlights ongoing food safety concerns for raw pet food products and the risks they pose to both animals and their owners.
Key Details About the Recalled Product
Affected Product Information:
Product Name: Blue Ridge Beef “Natural Mix” Raw Dog Food Packaging: 2-pound rolls UPC: 854298001054 Lot Number: N26/12/31 Distribution Dates: January 3 – January 24, 2025 Where It Was Sold: Retail stores in eight states:
- Virginia
- Maryland
- Pennsylvania
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- New York
- Tennessee
- Rhode Island
If you purchased this product, the FDA urges you to stop feeding it to your pet immediately.
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Health Risks of Salmonella Contamination
For Humans:
People who handle contaminated pet food without washing their hands properly can develop Salmonella infection, which can cause:
Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea (sometimes bloody) Severe abdominal cramping Fever and chills
In more severe cases, Salmonella can lead to:
Blood infections (sepsis) Arterial infections Endocarditis (heart inflammation) Urinary tract infections Joint pain and arthritis
For Pets:
Dogs who consume the contaminated food may experience:
Lethargy and fatigue Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea Vomiting Loss of appetite Fever and stomach pain
Even if a pet does not appear sick, they can still spread Salmonella through their feces, potentially infecting other animals and humans in the household.
What Dog Owners Should Do Next
The FDA advises all pet owners who have purchased Blue Ridge Beef’s “Natural Mix” to take the following steps immediately:
Stop feeding the product to pets and keep it out of reach of all animals.
Check your package for the recalled UPC and lot number to confirm if your product is affected.
Dispose of the food safely, ensuring that it does not come in contact with people, pets, or wildlife.
Clean and disinfect all surfaces that may have been exposed to the food, including:
- Pet food bowls and scoops
- Countertops, floors, and storage containers
- Hands and clothing after handling the product
Monitor pets for symptoms of Salmonella poisoning and contact a veterinarian if they show signs of illness.
If you or anyone in your household experiences symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Customers may also return the recalled product to the store where it was purchased for a full refund.
A Growing Concern: Previous Recalls Raise Questions
This is the second recall in just a few months for Blue Ridge Beef, raising concerns about ongoing contamination issues within the company. In December 2024, the company recalled its “Puppy Mix” raw dog food due to similar Salmonella contamination.
These frequent recalls emphasize the importance of food safety regulations in the pet food industry and the need for stricter oversight on raw food manufacturers.
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Final Thoughts: Keeping Pets and Families Safe
While raw pet food diets have become popular among dog owners, this recall serves as a serious reminder of the risks associated with raw food contamination. Bacterial infections like Salmonella can spread quickly, endangering both pets and their human families.
If you have purchased Blue Ridge Beef’s “Natural Mix” dog food, do not take any risks—dispose of it immediately and follow FDA safety recommendations. Keeping a close eye on pet food recalls and ensuring proper food handling can go a long way in protecting your pet’s health and your family’s safety.
For more updates on pet food safety alerts and FDA recalls, stay informed by checking the FDA website or signing up for recall notifications.
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