FDA Inspection Finds Pathogens in Pet Food Products from USDA-Inspected Facility

Lewis Sausage Co. Inc., a North Carolina-based meat and poultry processor, has faced multiple recalls due to contamination issues in their raw pet food products. The company, which is USDA-inspected for its meat products, failed two FDA inspections in 2023 and 2024. This resulted in the recall of several products contaminated with harmful pathogens.

Following consumer complaints of pet illness, the FDA found that Lewis Sausage's products were contaminated with harmful pathogens, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes. These pathogens can cause serious health problems in pets, but also to owners or anyone who may handle or encounter these products.

On December 26, 2023, and January 31, 2024, the FDA received consumer complaints of dogs becoming sick after consuming the raw brand’s product. In January 2024, products tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, which led to a recall of four products.

In May 2024, a reinspection conducted by the FDA highlighted several similar concerns. The agency found that the company's products were still contaminated with Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause serious illness in pets. This triggered another recall on June 12, 2024, for five products of the same brand, with a company announcement in July 2024. This highlights the importance of careful product selection and monitoring, even when products are sourced from reputable facilities.

“Many smaller players and especially fresh food companies do not understand the food safety risks associated with producing these products. This is where BSM Partners can help,” commented August Konie, MS, MBA, Principal of Food Safety, Quality Assurance and Regulatory (FSQAR) Services at BSM Partners.

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About the Author

Dr. Stephanie Clark is a board-certified companion animal nutritionist, veterinary nurse and nutrition specialist, a pet owner, and a mother who had a baby during the formula shortage. She has spent the past almost two decades dedicating her career to the welfare of pets, livestock, and wildlife. She currently provides nutritional consultations for veterinary clinics and works in the pet food industry.