FDA issues health alert on beef hooves, pig ears

National Report

-- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded a voluntary recall initiated by PetSmart on Pet Carousel products Nov. 6.

The FDA’s health alert includes two varieties of beef hoof products manufactured by Pet Carousel Inc. of Sanger, Calif., recalled by PetSmart Nov. 5, and adds pig ear products packaged under Doogie Delight and Pet Carousel brands.

No illnesses have been reported in relation to the products, but FDA says the pet treats could possibly be contaminated with Salmonella since conditions at Pet Carousel’s plant “facilitate cross-contamination.” A routine test of the products in September detected a positive Salmonella reading, prompting a full FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. The investigation revealed traces of Salmonella in the beef hoof and pig ear products, as well as in the manufacturing environment, FDA says. FDA still is working to determine the origin of the contamination.

Customers who purchased the affected products are warned to discontinue use immediately.