Lystn, LLC, operating as ANSWERS Pet Food, has voluntarily withdrawn several lots of its beef and chicken dog food products due to potential contamination with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, according to a recent announcement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Fleetwood, Pennsylvania-based company initiated the recall after FDA samples tested positive for the presence of these bacteria. The affected products include ANSWERS Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs, ANSWERS Straight Beef Formula for Dogs, and ANSWERS Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs.
According to the FDA, there have been no confirmed illnesses associated with the products in question. They did, however, warn that the bacteria poses a risk to both animals and humans who handle the products.
While not common, pets that become sick from listeria can develop symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea and spread it to humans, they said. Salmonella infections can make dogs lethargic, vomit, and have bloody diarrhea, among other side effects.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide through retail stores and direct online sales. They are sold in 4-pound half-gallon cartons with specific lot numbers and best-by dates.
The FDA cautions that people infected with listeria monocytogenes could experience symptoms including fever, stiff neck, muscle aches, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of balance, confusion, and convulsions.
Salmonella infections in humans can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare cases, it may lead to more serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
The FDA recommends that anyone who may have purchased the affected products should discard them properly, ensuring that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access them. Areas where the products were stored should be thoroughly sanitized, they said.
Lystn is offering refunds to consumers who have purchased the affected products. Customers can submit a receipt and pictures of the product to [email protected], along with the retailer’s information.
The company states that it is conducting this voluntary withdrawal out of an abundance of caution to protect public health. Lystn emphasizes its commitment to food safety, citing its use of fermentation, probiotics, and protective cultures to mitigate pathogen growth.
As the investigation continues, pet owners are advised to monitor their animals for any signs of illness and consult their veterinarians if symptoms occur. Individuals who have handled the recalled products and are experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare providers promptly.
For more information about the recall or to ask questions, consumers can contact ANSWERS Pet Food at [email protected].