Dog Foods Recalled Due to Salmonella and Listeria Contamination

A Pennsylvania-based pet food company, ANSWERS Pet Food, is recalling several dog food products after samples tested positive for salmonella and listeria. The recall was announced in a notice posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website, citing an “abundance of caution” after federal testing found contamination. Several beef and chicken dog food products from ANSWERS Pet Food, based in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, have tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono). The FDA advises that these products be “thrown out or destroyed in a manner that prevents access by children, pets, and wildlife.”

The affected products include:

• ANSWERS Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs (4-pound bags)
• Straight Beef Formula for Dogs (4-pound bags)
• Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs (4-pound bags)

All recalled products have expiration dates starting in 2026. For specific lot codes and expiration details, visit the FDA website.

Health Risks for Humans and Dogs: While there have been no reported illnesses associated with the recalled products, both salmonella and listeria pose risks to pets and humans. Humans can contract these bacteria if they don’t wash their hands or surfaces that come into contact with the contaminated food. Symptoms in humans can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting, lasting several days.

• Listeria in Dogs: Ingesting contaminated food may cause mild symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, though dogs rarely become seriously ill.
• Salmonella in Dogs: Dogs may experience more severe symptoms, such as lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Even if a dog shows no symptoms, it could carry the bacteria and spread it to humans or other animals.

What to Do:

If your pet shows symptoms after consuming the affected food, consult a veterinarian. Owners of the recalled products should dispose of the food carefully, avoiding direct contact. To request a refund, consumers can email a photo of the product and receipt to info@answerspetfood.com.