Diamond Dog Food Linked to Human Illnesses

A rare strain of salmonella (salmonella infantis) that has been linked to dog food has infected at least 14 people in nine states. At least 5 were hospitalized, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported.  The states reporting illnesses were the following: Alabama, Connecticut, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Ohio, but tainted product may have reached many more states.   

No, victims did not become ill by dining on their dogs' dinner. According to health officials, these illnesses most likely occurred because animal caregivers handled contaminated dog food and then didn't wash their hands thoroughly before eating or preparing their own food.

In April 2012, Diamond Pet Foods initiated 3 voluntary recalls of the company's dry dog foods.  On May 5th, it expanded the recall to include batches of 9 brands of dry pet food formulas. Although none of the additional brands tested positive for salmonella, the company is pulling these from the shelves as a precaution.  To see a list of the recalled brands and the production dates and best-by dates involved in the recalls, click here.  The expanded recall affects 16 U.S. states and Canada.  The affected states are listed in the company's May 5th recall.  For further information on this recall, customers can also phone 1-866-918-8756.

So far, there have been no reports of canine illnesses from this contamination.  However, in 2005, a toxic mold in food produced at the same South Carolina plant killed dozens of dogs. 

In response to the Diamond Pet Food announcement, additional recalls have come from the following companies: Wellpet LLC, Natural Balance Pet Foods,Solid Gold Health Producdts for Pets, Canidae Pet Foods, and Apex Pet Foods.

Animals infected with salmonella may exhibit these symptoms: lethargy, bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting.  Note: Otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals, so Diamond advises customers to contact their vet if their pet has consumed one of the recalled products. 

Source(s):

diamondpet.com “For Immediate Release - May 5, 2012"
http://www.diamondpet.com/information/

Chicago Tribune "Salmonella tied to dog food sickens 14 people"

May 6, 2012

stltoday.com (the St. Louis website) Salmonella in dog food sickens 14 people in US"
http://www.stltoday.com/news/science/salmonella-in-dog-food-sickens-people-in-us/article_632c3c8a-ee38-5c5e-b1b9-6452be61a4a4.html

usatoday.com "Salmonella in dog food sickens 14 people in U.S."

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/story/2012-05-04/dog-food-salmonella-outbreak/54748730/1