FDA warns of possibly contaminated dog treat

Silver Spring, Md.

-- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers not to feed their dogs Merrick Beef Filet Squares if the package date says “Best By 111911” because of possible Salmonella contamination.

In December 2009, the FDA’s routine testing of the Merrick Beef Filet Squares, which is distributed by Merrick Pet Care, revealed a positive result for Salmonella. Deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing processes were discovered on subsequent inspection.

No illnesses have been reported with these products, but the FDA is still advising consumers not to handle them or feed them to pets.

The affected product comes in a 10-oz, green, red and tan re-sealable plastic bag and was distributed nationwide in retail stores and on the Internet. If consumers cannot determine the “best by” date on the product, the FDA recommends they not use it.