FDA announces recall of pet food after more than 25 dogs die

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of nine lots of pet food after the deaths of more than 25 dogs.

Midwestern Pet Foods issued a voluntary recall of nine lots of its Sportmix pet food after testing by the Missouri Department of Agriculture found they contained very high levels of aflatoxin, which in sufficient amounts can cause illness and deaths in pets.

The FDA said it is aware of at least 28 deaths and eight illnesses in dogs that ate the food.

Pets affected by aflatoxin poisoning can experience symptoms such as sluggishness, loss of appetite and vomiting, the agency said.

Aflatoxin is produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus, which can grown on corn and other grains used in pet foods, according to the FDA. It can be present even if there is no visible mold.

The agency added that there’s no evidence suggesting pet owners who handle products containing aflatoxin are at risk of aflatoxin poisoning, but it still advises them to wash their hands after handling pet food.

The agency said it is conducting follow-up activities at the manufacturing facilities.