Family Dollar had a mass recall on February 18, 2022, which resulted in over 400 locations temporarily closing. Health hazards at a distribution center in West Memphis, Arkansas, caused the company to recall all the cosmetics, over-the-counter medications, medical devices, human food, and pet food that could’ve been affected.
Currently, there are no reported illnesses related to this recall, but using these items could cause a huge risk for humans and pets. So, if you have purchased pet food or treats from Family Dollar, you may need to dispose of those products and shop elsewhere until this is sorted out.
What Caused the Recall?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration found over 1,000 rodents in the Arkansas distribution center. An FDA inspection of the facility occurred after a consumer complaint. The rodent infestation may cause the presence of Salmonella in some products, which is why they were recalled.
“Live rodents, dead rodents in various states of decay, rodent feces and urine, evidence of gnawing, nesting and rodent odors throughout the facility, dead birds and bird droppings, and products stored in conditions that did not protect against contamination,” the FDA wrote. “More than 1,100 dead rodents were recovered from the facility following a fumigation at the facility in January 2022. Additionally, a review of the company’s internal records also indicated the collection of more than 2,300 rodents between March 29 and September 17, 2021, demonstrating a history of infestation.”
Which Products were Recalled?
The FDA didn’t provide a list of specific pet food brands affected, but it’s assumed that any pet products sold at the specific locations could be at risk. The company website states that Family Dollar sold 57 dry dog foods, 36 wet dog foods, 38 dog treats, 35 dry cat foods, 36 wet cat foods, and 12 cat treats.
However, not all of their pet products were available in-store. Also, not every location carried the same products.
Here’s a list of some pet food brands that were likely affected:
- 9 Lives
- Alpo
- Alpo Tbonz
- Ashland Farms
- Beefeaters
- Beggin’ Strips
- Beneful
- Cesars
- Friskies
- Gravy Train
- Kibble ‘n Bits
- Kit & Kaboodle
- Meow Mix
- Pedigree
- Pounce
- Pup-peroni
- Purina Cat Chow
- Purina Dog Chow
- Purina One
- Snausages
- Temptations
The recall doesn’t include frozen or refrigerated products since they weren’t at the infested distribution center.
Where were the Products Sold?
These brands were only affected at specific stores. Any of the above foods sold at different Family Dollar locations or other stores are safe to purchase.
404 Family Dollar stores were affected by the rodent infestations. They were located in the following states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Tennessee
You can see the detailed list of affected stores here. All the stores listed are now closed until further notice so Family Dollar can solve the issue.
Risks of Salmonella for Dogs and Humans
Consuming any of the affected products could cause Salmonella infections in pets. Dogs infected with Salmonella may experience diarrhea, bloody stools, fever, vomiting, decreased appetite, or drooling. Some pets may also carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms.
Humans who come into contact with the affected products or any infected animals can also suffer from Salmonella symptoms. If you’re infected with Salmonella, you may experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, symptoms could lead to severe illnesses like arthritis, endocarditis, and arterial infections.
Salmonella infections can be fatal for infants, young children, elderly people, pregnant people, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. So, as soon as you notice unusual behaviors in you or your dog, you should contact a medical professional, especially if you have one of the recalled products.
What to Do with Potentially Infected Products
If you’ve purchased products from any affected Family Dollar facilities, stop using them right away and dispose of them just to be safe. You may be able to get a refund if you contact the company.
To find out more details about the recall, contact Family Dollar Customer Service at 844-636-7687. They operate from 9 am to 5 pm EST. A representative should be able to answer any questions or concerns you have about the products you purchased.
H/T: dogfoodadvisor.com
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