FDA Health Alert: Do Not Use Certain Beef Dog Treats Distributed by Merrick Pet Care
The FDA Thursday warned consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares with a package date of “Best By 11/19/11,” because they may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The treats for dogs were distributed nationwide through retail stores and the Internet.
No illnesses associated with the treats have as yet been reported, but the FDA is advising people not to handle the or feed them to pets. Routine testing in December detected Salmonella. Another inspection found deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing of the product.
The affected Merrick Beef Filet Squares were packaged in a 10-ounce green, red and tan resealable plastic bag. The “best by” date is imprinted on the top portion of the bag, which is torn off when the bag is opened. The FDA recommends that consumers who are unable to determine the “best by” date discontinue use of the product.
Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. For consumer inquiries, phone 888-INFO-FDA. Please see this page for additional information on the warning and Salmonella.
Thanks for this consumer tip. My humans have been trying to give me healthier treats, with the encouragement of our friendly neighborhood pet store, Barry’s on Fillmore. The folks at Barry’s will sell Pup-peroni’s and their ilk, but they prefer pushing healthy snacks, like these great little cheese-flavored bits that come out of a big barrel. Yum, I love them!
I almost bought some treats like these for my dogs but I didn’t. Usually I buy biscuits, the low fat kind, but the chews I stay away from. Thank you for the reminder that these products can be dangerous to our beloved pets.
The voluntary withdrawal was only on lot number –“ 09323 best buy 111911”. There were only 84 retailers that may have received the product. The retail stores have been notified and if the retailer had this lot then the product was pulled. There are only 17 cases that have not been recovered. If you would like further information to help determine if you have this lot please visit our website or call us at 1-800-664-7387.
My sister, A JRT, has selflessly volunteered
to eat all of the offending treats, to protect everyone else!
What a star!
thanks for the update on the merric treats. i just purchased them. i also called the pet store to advise them.
Does anyone know if there has been a recall of other Merrick products? I feed Trixie Merrick wet food with her dry Wellness and now I’m worried…
Trixie’s mom,
No need to worry. It was only those treats, and actually, only a small percentage of the treats were affected. The recall was very specific. Trixie can keep enjoying her wet food!
Maria
Thanks for the info about the Merrick treats. I am passing along to all my furry friends at the day care.
I like Merrick treats! Hopefully this is just a little blip on the radar. Thanks for the info…