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RECALL UPDATE: Aflatoxin Poisoning Leaves Over 100 Dogs Dead And 200 Sick

Written by: Molly Weinfurter
Molly Weinfurter is a writer for iHeartDogs, and she’s passionate about helping animals in need. She volunteers for Bailing Out Benji and a local dog rescue.Read more
| Published on January 28, 2021

Dog food recalls are critical, especially when so many dogs are falling ill or even passing away because of it. Midwestern Pet Foods is already getting a lot of negative attention due to a continuously growing recall. First, in December 2020, the recall was for nine lots of Sportmix Food with deadly aflatoxin. Then, on January 11th, 2021, the company expanded the recall list to all pet foods containing corn from their Oklahoma plant after 70 pets died.

As if that wasn’t bad enough, cases of aflatoxin poisoning are on the rise. Dog parents are once again urged to get rid of affected dog food as soon as possible.

Dog holding hand
Image: @midwesternpetfoods/Facebook

What Has Changed?

As of January 21st, 2021, the FDA is aware of a shocking increase in pets affected by this recall. There have been 110 animal deaths related to the fatal levels of aflatoxin. Additionally, 210 pets have also gotten sick after eating the affected food. No human illnesses have been reported yet.

This recall remains an ongoing investigation. So, while no new formulas have been added to the recall list, it’s likely that it could change in the near future. It’s also possible that more dogs and cats could get sick, so please dispose of the food if you have it. The recalled pet food was distributed nationally to physical pet stores and online retailers, who were all informed to stop selling them immediately.

Which Foods are Affected?

Currently, more than 1,000 lot codes of Midwestern Pet Foods have been affected. Any formulas containing corn from the Oklahoma plant could be dangerous. This can be indicated by looking at the lot code found on the back of the bag. Foods with an expiration date of July 9th, 2022 or sooner, along with bags with “05” in the lot code, should be disposed of.

Sportmix Dog Food
Image: @sportmixpetfood/Facebook

The following products are all included in the updated recall:

  • Pro Pac Adult Mini Chunk, 40 lb. bag
  • Pro Pac Performance Puppy, 40 lb. bag
  • Splash Fat Cat 32%, 50 lb. bag
  • Nunn Better Maintenance, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportstrail, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Original Cat, 15 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Original Cat, 31 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Maintenance, 44 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Maintenance, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix High Protein, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Energy Plus, 44 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Energy Plus, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Stamina, 44 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Stamina, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Bite Size, 40 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Bite Size, 44 lb. bag
  • Sportmix High Energy, 44 lb. bag
  • Sportmix High Energy, 50 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Premium Puppy, 16.5 lb. bag
  • Sportmix Premium Puppy, 33 lb. bag

Aflatoxin poisoning could cause sluggishness, a loss of appetite, vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, and diarrhea. If your dog eats one of these recalled products, contact your vet right away.

Sportmix Kibble Pieces
Image: @sportmixpetfood/Facebook

What Should You Do with the Affected Food?

If you still have one of these products, please dispose of it right away. Wipe down everything the food could’ve touched, including counters, containers, and bowls. Most importantly, spread the word. If you know someone who buys Midwestern Pet Foods, make sure they are aware of this recall, so no more dogs or cats get sick.

You can contact Midwestern Pet Foods at 800-474-4163, ext. 455 or info@midwesternpetfoods.com for additional information. Also, keep an eye out for updates as the FDA continues to investigate this growing recall.

H/T: foodsafetynews.com
Featured Image: @midwesternpetfoods/Facebook

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