Pet owners are being alerted to an expanded voluntary recall of specific dog food products due to the potential presence of aflatoxin, a harmful substance. The recall, announced by Sunshine Mills, Inc., and acknowledged by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), involves several brands of dog food made with corn that may be contaminated with aflatoxin at levels exceeding the FDA’s safety limits.
This recall is an extension of a previous action initiated in early September 2020. Further investigation revealed that additional corn-based pet food products, manufactured between April 3, 2020, and April 5, 2020, could be affected. The source of contamination is traced back to a single load of corn containing elevated aflatoxin levels.
But what exactly is aflatoxin, and why is it a concern for pet food? Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus, a mold that can grow on crops like corn, especially in warm and humid conditions. Even in small quantities, aflatoxin can be dangerous to pets if consumed over time. Higher levels can lead to aflatoxin poisoning (aflatoxicosis), a serious health issue in animals.
Champ Mini Chunk Dog Food Beef and Chicken Flavor 12lb bag, one of the recalled dog food products due to potential aflatoxin contamination.
While no pet illnesses have been directly linked to these specific recalled products yet, Sunshine Mills is taking this precautionary measure to ensure pet safety and maintain product quality. It’s important to note that this recall is limited to specific products and lot codes listed and does not affect any other Sunshine Mills pet food products.
Dogs suffering from aflatoxin toxicity may exhibit various symptoms, including:
- Lethargy or sluggishness
- Loss of appetite or reluctance to eat
- Vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or gums)
- Diarrhea
- In severe cases, liver damage and even death
If your dog has consumed any of the recalled products and shows these signs, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.
The recalled dog foods were distributed nationwide through retail stores in the United States. Additionally, some products, specifically Principle Super Premium Natural Dog Food and Sportsman’s Pride Maintenance Adult Formula Dog Food, were exported to distributors in Japan and Colombia, respectively. Retailers who received the affected batches have been instructed to remove them from their shelves.
Field Trial Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 16lb bag, included in the FDA recall due to possible aflatoxin contamination.
To determine if you have purchased any of the recalled dog food, check the product name, size, lot codes, and UPC code against the detailed list provided by Sunshine Mills and the FDA. The lot codes are printed on the back of the bag. Some of the affected brands include:
- Champ® MINI CHUNK DOG FOOD BEEF AND CHICKEN FLAVOR
- FIELD TRIAL® COMPLETE NUTRITION PREMIUM DOG FOOD
- GOOD DOG BRAND® DOG FOOD HI-ENERGY FORMULA
- HUNTER’S SPECIAL® DOG FOOD (various formulas)
- OLD GLORY® DOG FOOD HEARTY BEEF & CHICKEN FLAVOR
- PAWS HAPPY LIFE® NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE DOG FOOD
- PET EXPERT® ALWAYS FIT FORMULA
- PRINCIPLE® SUPER PREMIUM NATURAL DOG FOOD BREEDER PACK
- RETRIEVER® BITES & BONES ADULT COMPLETE NUTRITION SAVORY CHICKEN FLAVOR
- RIVER BEND® DOG FOOD (BASIC NUTRITION and SELECT)
- SPORTSMAN’S PRIDE® MAINTENANCE ADULT FORMULA DOG FOOD
- SPROUT® (various formulas like BITES & BONES, HI-PROTEIN, MAINTENANCE, PUPPY)
- THRIFTY® ADULT DOG FOOD
- TOP RUNNER® PREMIUM DOG FOOD
- WHISKERS & TAILS® ADULT RECIPE COMPLETE DOG FOOD
Good Dog Brand Dog Food Hi-Energy Formula 50lb bag, part of the voluntary recall due to potential aflatoxin.
Consumers who have bought any of the recalled products should immediately stop using them. You can return the unused portion to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
For any questions or further information, consumers can contact Sunshine Mills, Inc. Customer Service at (800) 705-2111, Monday through Friday, from 7 AM to 4 PM Central Time, or via email at [email protected].
This expanded recall is being conducted with the full knowledge and cooperation of the FDA, underscoring the commitment to pet food safety and the well-being of our animal companions. Pet owners are urged to check their dog food and take necessary precautions.
