Pet Food Maker Issues Limited Recall in Southern California, Las Vegas

Due to potential Salmonella contamination, Mars Petcare U.S. of Nashville, Tenn., is voluntary recalling 100 of the 20-pound bags of Pedigree Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites sold in Albertsons stores in Southern California and Las Vegas.

Last week, a component that should have been on hold due to positive testing results was inadvertently shipped to the company’s Tracy, Calif., facility and used in the production of 100 bags of the Pedigree Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites with best by dates of 7/2009.

Although the finished product tested negative of Salmonella and there have been no reports of illness or injury resulting from consumption or handling of the recalled product, the company said it is taking precaution and issuing the voluntary recall. Mars Petcare also said it is cooperating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Pet owners are advised to dispose of the product in a safe manner, such as a securely covered trash receptacle, and return the empty bag to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and potentially infect other animals or humans.

Call a veterinarian if a pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms. Visit the FDA website for a list of safe pet food handling tips.

For more information on the recall, call 877-568-4463 or visit the Mars PetCare website.