Pet owners across the UK are being urged to check their supplies immediately following an urgent recall notice from pet food manufacturer Viva Raw. The company has pulled specific batches of its raw products over fears they could be contaminated with Salmonella and other dangerous bacteria.
The recall, which impacts both dog and cat food, was initiated after routine testing revealed potential contamination. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a severe Point-of-Sale notice, advising consumers not to feed these products to their animals.
Which Products Are Affected?
The recall is not for Viva Raw's entire range but targets specific batches. The affected products are marked with the batch code 011124 and have a use-by date of 11/01/2025. The items in question are:
- Viva Raw Beef Complete 1lb
- Viva Raw Beef Complete 4lb
- Viva Raw Beef & Salmon Complete 1lb
- Viva Raw Beef & Salmon Complete 4lb
Why Is This So Dangerous?
Consuming products contaminated with Salmonella poses a serious health risk not only to pets but also to their human families. Animals can become severely ill, while humans can be infected through cross-contamination in the kitchen or simply by handling the pet food.
Symptoms of Salmonella poisoning in both pets and people include severe vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and lethargy. The infection can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
What Should You Do?
If you have purchased any of the listed products with the matching batch code, you must take immediate action:
- Stop feeding the product to your pet immediately.
- Securely seal the package and dispose of it in your general household waste, ensuring it is out of reach of pets and wildlife.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect any surfaces, utensils, or pet bowls that have come into contact with the food.
- Wash your hands meticulously with soap and water after handling the product or any contaminated items.
Viva Raw has stated that customers can contact them directly for a full refund. The company has apologised for any inconvenience and assured the public that it is working closely with the FSA to resolve the issue.
Vigilance is key. Always check batch codes upon purchase and practice good hygiene when handling any raw pet food to safeguard the health of your entire household.
