FDA Warns of Pathogenic Contamination in Raaw Energy Dog Food

The contamination was uncovered after a consumer complaint was lodged with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture concerning a dog's illness, prompting subsequent testing. Laboratory results indicated that all eight samples contained Listeria monocytogenes, while Salmonella and Campylobacter jejuni were also detected in some samples. One of the products showed contamination with Escherichia coli O157:H7.

In response to these findings, the FDA advised Raaw Energy to recall the affected lots; however, the company has not yet initiated a sufficient recall. The dog food in question is packaged in 2-pound and 5-pound clear plastic tubes sealed with a metal clip, and sold in brown cardboard boxes. It is primarily distributed online with options for in-person pickup.

Consumers can identify affected products by checking the date code printed on white stickers on the tubes and boxes, which also list the product flavor and ingredients. The FDA urges anyone who purchased these products to inspect their packaging for the corresponding date codes. Pet owners are advised to monitor their pets for any signs of illness and to seek veterinary care if symptoms appear.

To mitigate potential contamination, the FDA recommends that consumers who own the recalled products thoroughly clean and disinfect all pet-related items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated food. This includes storage containers, bowls, utensils, bedding, and even areas like refrigerators and freezers. Proper handwashing after handling the products is also emphasized.

The specific products involved include:

- Chicken Medley—2-lb tubes, Date code: 7.17.25 (Pathogens: Listeria, Salmonella, Campylobacter)

- Chicken Medley—5-lb tubes, Date code: 11.22.25 (Pathogen: Listeria)

- Chicken Medley—5-lb tubes, Date code: 12.12.25 (Pathogens: Listeria, Salmonella)

- Salmon—5-lb tubes, Date codes: 12.5.25, 12.12.25 (Pathogen: Listeria)

- Beef and Chicken Medley—5-lb tubes, Date code: 12.16.25 (Pathogen: Listeria)

- Beef and Turkey Medley—5-lb tubes, Date code: 12.18.25 (Pathogen: Listeria)

- Beef, Chicken, Tripe Medley—5-lb tubes, Date code: 12.23.25 (Pathogens: Listeria, E. coli)

The presence of pathogenic bacteria in pet food raises public health concerns, as contaminated diets can lead to gastrointestinal illness in pets, which may either exhibit symptoms or remain asymptomatic while still shedding bacteria. This poses a risk not only to other animals but to humans, particularly vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The FDA notes that typical storage methods, such as freezing or refrigeration, do not eliminate these pathogens, underscoring the importance of proper sanitation practices in handling pet food.