Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc., in collaboration with the FDA and the MN Department of Agriculture, has taken precautionary measures to widen its recall of hedgehog food products. This decision follows the discovery of potential Salmonella contamination in specific lots of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food. The contamination poses risks not only to animals consuming the product but also to humans who handle it without thorough handwashing.
The contamination was initially identified through random testing conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on June 18, 2024, from Lot Number 417429. It's important to note that this testing was routine and not triggered by any consumer complaints.
Details of the Recall
The affected products can be identified by the following lot numbers:
UPC #: 0-87535-40060-4
DESCRIPTION: Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food, 25oz
LOT: 417429, 406118, 407265, 407849, 409133, 410999, 415624, 419647
EXP: Various dates between May 2025 and November 2025
UPC #: 0-51233-34792-9
DESCRIPTION: Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food, 25oz
LOT: 409175, 411084, 412635, 415713, 417491
EXP: Various dates between June 2025 and October 2025
Consumers who have purchased products from these specific lots are urged to discontinue use immediately and return any unused portions to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Health Risks and Precautions
Pets exposed to Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, and vomiting. Even asymptomatic pets can transmit the bacteria to other animals or humans. If your pet shows signs of Salmonella infection after consuming the recalled product, consult a veterinarian promptly.
For humans, symptoms of Salmonella infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal cramping, and fever. In severe cases, Salmonella can lead to more serious health issues such as arterial infections or arthritis. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after handling the affected pet food should seek medical attention.
Distribution and Customer Support
The recalled products were distributed across multiple states including AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MI, MN, MO, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, and WI. Retailers and distributors have been notified to remove these lots from their shelves.
