November 28, 2010

All we can do is be better prepared today than yesterday and better prepared tomorrow than today.

Pet Food Recall 101 
Are you concerned about pet food recalls? Safe yourself from any confusion and pain...follow these 3 steps to stay informed about recalls.


STEP 1: Get the facts and know the difference between product recalls and withdrawal. "In general, recalls are more serious since regulations are being violated that are put in place to protect consumers, pets, or both. Recalls will result in some action on the part of the FDA if a manufacturer does not act. Market withdrawals do not involve regulatory action and are usually done to remove product with flaws or inconsistencies in appearance and/or performance. (1)"

Recall means a firm's removal or correction of a marketed product that the Food and Drug Administration considers to be in violation of the laws it administers and against which the agency would initiate legal action, e.g., seizure. Recall does not include a market withdrawal or a stock recovery. (2) 

Market Withdrawal means a firm's removal or correction of a distributed product which involves a minor violation that would not be subject to legal action by the Food and Drug Administration or which involves no violation, e.g., normal stock rotation practices, routine equipment adjustments and repairs, etc. (2)

STEP 2: Be prepared and bookmark these websites to track pet food recalls. Having more than one go-to source will give you peace of mind regarding legitimacy and accuracy of the recall alerts.


STEP 3: Build a repertoire with the manager or salesperson at your favorite independent pet food store. Their knowledge of dog food can help you find substitutes if your dog’s foods and treats are involved in a recall. Consider upgrading your dog food brand to a company who has a clean track record.

Resources: 
(1) Pet Food Express - Product Issue Information


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