FDA Warns Mid America Pet Food LLC for Salmonella Contamination in Dog Foods
On December 10, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a warning letter to Mid America Pet Food LLC regarding Salmonella contamination in their dog foods. The letter, sent to the company on November 22, highlighted various concerns and violations observed during FDA inspections at the company’s food manufacturing facility in Mount Pleasant, Texas in November 2023 and January 2024.
Link to Foodborne Illness Outbreak
The FDA’s inspection was prompted by voluntary recalls made by Mid America Pet Food LLC in September and October, which were expanded in November after Salmonella was detected in specific lots of their Victor dog food. Additionally, the FDA conducted the inspection as part of an investigation with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) into a multi-state foodborne illness outbreak of Salmonella Kiambu.
The FDA disclosed that seven people across seven states were infected with the outbreak strain between January 14, 2023, and August 19, 2023, with one person requiring hospitalization. Shockingly, six of the affected individuals were children under one year of age. The illnesses were directly linked to dog food manufactured at Mid America Pet Food LLC’s facility in 2023, specifically through a sample of Victor Super Premium Dog Food Classic Hi-Pro Plus (lot 1000016385; Best By 4/30/24), leading to the September 2023 recall.
Adulteration and Violations
Based on findings, the FDA classified the contaminated product as Victor Super Premium Dog Food Classic Hi-Pro Plus (lot 1000016385; Best By 4/30/24) as “adulterated,” indicating the presence of harmful substances. Furthermore, a follow-up inspection in early 2024 due to a consumer complaint revealed the presence of three different strains of Salmonella in the company’s manufacturing facility: Salmonella Rissen, Salmonella Minnesota, and Salmonella Mbandaka.
In addition to the Salmonella contamination, FDA investigators identified significant violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Food for Animals requirements in Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 507 (21 CFR Part 507). The FDA stated that the company’s products were “adulterated” due to being prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions that could lead to contamination or health risks.
Legal Implications and Conclusion
In the warning letter’s conclusion, the FDA emphasized that it is Mid America Pet Food LLC’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all federal laws and FDA regulations. Failure to address the identified concerns and violations could result in legal action, such as seizure and injunction. The full warning letter can be accessed for further details and insights.
This incident highlights the critical importance of stringent quality control measures in food manufacturing to safeguard public health and prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Consumers must remain vigilant about product recalls and FDA warnings to protect themselves and their pets from potential health risks associated with contaminated food products.