Natural Balance recalls dog food after positive Salmonella test

Pacoima, Calif.

-- A positive test result for Salmonella led to a voluntary recall of five-pound and 28-pound bags of Natural Balance Pet Foods' Sweet Potato and Chicken Dry Dog Food. Recalled products have a "Best By" date of June 17, 2011.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued the alert to veterinarians and pet owners after discovering the Salmonella contamination following a random sample test.

The voluntary recall notice warns that the bacteria can affect animals and people who have handled the pet food. Veterinary signs associated with Salmonella infections may include lethargy, diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Less extreme symptoms may include decrease appetite and abdominal pain. Pet owners are being urged to contact their veterinarian if these symptoms develop after eating these foods.

Recalled products were distributed in pet specialty stores in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Natural Balance has sent a letter with instructions to pet stores and other sellers. Consumers who bought the affected food should return it to the place of purchase for a refund.