Castleberry's Food Company has issued a recall of certain food products — including canned dog food — due to possible contamination from the bacteria known to cause botulism, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Recalled dog food includes four Natural Balance canned varieties: Irish Stew with Beef, Potatoes and Carrots; Chinese Take Out with Sauce with Vegetables and Chicken; Southern Style Dumplings with Gravy with Chicken & Vegetables; and Hobo Chili with Chicken & Pasta.
Products included in the dog food recall should be disposed of immediately using double bags that are tightly wrapped and placed in non-recyclable containers, warn FDA officials.
Two cases of botulism in humans have been confirmed, along with two potential cases involving individuals who ate Hot Dog Chili Sauce products. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the Natural Balance dog foods.
Botulism symptoms in humans include progressive muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing and swallowing, and general weakness. Death may result due to eventual paralysis of cardiac muscles. Symptoms generally appear within 24 hours, however the incubation period may last up to two weeks. Dogs that exhibit these symptoms should immediately be taken to a veterinarian.
The initial recall was issued July 18, 2007, however FDA investigators found recalled dog food and human food products still available at 307 of the 3,788 stores visited. Most of the recalled products were found at small convenience stores and independent grocers. The FDA is advising consumers to notify a store manager if they see recalled dog food products on store shelves.
For more information and a list of UPC codes of possible contaminated products, visit www.castleberrys.com. For questions and product refunds, call Castleberry’s recall hotline at (800) 203-4412.