FDA Issues Recall on Popular Raw Dog Food Over Salmonella Risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent recall affecting select lots of raw dog food after testing revealed possible contamination with salmonella. The recall, announced in late October, urges pet parents to immediately stop feeding the affected product and dispose of it safely to protect both their pets and households from potential illness.

This recall comes amid growing concerns about the safety of raw pet food, as salmonella contamination poses serious health risks not only to animals but also to humans who handle contaminated food or come into contact with infected pets. While no illnesses have been reported so far, the FDA stresses that the recall is a precautionary measure to prevent potential exposure.

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What Pet Parents Need to Know About the Recall

The FDA’s notice identifies the recalled product as Raw Frozen Primal Patties for Dogs, Beef Formula, distributed nationwide and sold in six-pound bags. The affected lot number is #W10068809, with a best-by date of 05/22/26. Pet owners can find this information on the back of the product packaging near the barcode.

The contamination was discovered during routine FDA sampling. Tests confirmed the presence of salmonella, prompting Primal Pet Foods to issue an immediate voluntary recall. The company, based in Fairfield, Calif., has stated that no other products are affected and that all retailers have been notified to remove the contaminated batch from store shelves.

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If you have this product at home, the FDA advises handling it with extreme caution. Use gloves or a plastic bag to dispose of it in a sealed trash container. Disinfect any surfaces or utensils that came into contact with the food, and wash your hands thoroughly.

Even trace exposure to salmonella can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever in both humans and pets. The CDC estimates that thousands of people fall ill each year from handling contaminated pet food or interacting with infected animals. Pets with salmonella may experience lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus.

Why Raw Pet Food Recalls Are Rising

While many pet parents choose raw diets believing they’re more “natural,” the FDA continues to warn that raw or undercooked animal products carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination. In recent years, recalls have increased across several brands due to concerns about salmonella and listeria, underscoring the importance of food safety in the growing raw pet food industry.

Experts note that proper handling and storage can help reduce risk, but raw diets still require caution. Freezing does not kill salmonella, and even trace contamination can spread quickly across surfaces or through cross-contact with human food.

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For those who wish to continue raw feeding, veterinarians recommend purchasing from companies with rigorous safety testing protocols, maintaining clean food preparation areas, and promptly refrigerating or freezing unused portions.

The FDA encourages consumers to report any adverse reactions or pet illnesses linked to the recalled product through its safety reporting portal, which allows the agency to monitor and respond quickly to emerging public health risks.

Keeping Pets Safe at Home

Pet parents can stay informed by regularly checking the FDA’s pet food recall list for updates. Staying informed about ongoing recalls helps prevent accidental exposure and ensures your furry companions remain safe.

For those looking for more insight on pet safety and product recalls, check out PetHelpful’s coverage of previous FDA recalls like the Raw Bistro Pet Fare Recall. Both stories highlight the ongoing importance of vigilance in the pet food industry and the need for transparency and quality control.

As of now, Primal Pet Foods has pledged to fully cooperate with the FDA to identify the cause of the contamination and implement stricter preventive measures. Pet owners with questions can contact the company’s customer support directly at (800) 742-1312 or email [email protected] for more information.

Until then, keeping an eye on your pantry and practicing safe handling are the best ways to ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and bacteria-free. And if you’re looking for great dog food for your fur baby, check out the dog food pet parents are running to Costco to grab.

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This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Oct 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.