What's Happening?
Elite Treats LLC, a company based in Boca Raton, Florida, has issued a recall for a specific lot of its 'Elite Treats Chicken Chips for Dogs' due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall affects 6-ounce bags marked with lot number 24045 and an expiration
date of April 2027. These products were distributed by Florida Hardware, LLC to feed stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The recall was initiated after a third-party laboratory identified contamination in a related but commercially unreleased lot of the same product. No illnesses have been reported so far. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised consumers to stop using the affected products and to dispose of them safely. The FDA also recommends washing and sanitizing pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers, and washing hands thoroughly after handling the recalled food or contacting pets that may have consumed it.
Why It's Important?
The recall is significant because Salmonella can cause serious illness in both pets and humans. Pets infected with Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. In humans, Salmonella infection can lead to diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and can be particularly severe for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The rapid identification and removal of contaminated products are crucial to prevent the spread of infection. This recall highlights the importance of food safety and the need for stringent quality control measures in the pet food industry to protect both animal and human health.
What's Next?
Consumers who have purchased the affected dog treats are advised to stop using them immediately and to dispose of them in a manner that prevents access by children, pets, and wildlife. Elite Treats has provided contact information for consumers seeking refunds or replacements. The company can be reached at 561-901-5310 or via email at elite.treats@yahoo.com during business hours. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and may provide further updates as necessary. Retailers and consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report any adverse effects to the FDA.
