By: N Gilbert
Nestle Purina PetCare is voluntarily recalling Waggin' Train and Canyon Creek Ranch brand dog treats in the United States because the products may contain trace amounts of a poultry antibiotic that isn't approved in the U.S.
The chicken jerky products, which are made in China, may contain trace amounts of antibiotic residue, (in the parts per-billion range) but do not pose a health or pet safety risk, Purina said on Wednesday, January 9, 2013. No other Purina treats or pet food products are affected by this withdrawal.
The New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets (NYSDAM) found trace amounts of antibiotic residue in samples of Waggin' Train and Canyon Creek Ranch chicken jerky products. These antibiotics are approved for use in poultry in China and the European Union, but are not approved in the U.S.
NYSDAM initially requested that Purina remove the products from New York retail locations, which is being done and Nestle Purina extended the voluntary recall nationwide.
The company contacted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding NYSDAM's findings. The company maintains that there is no indication that the antibiotic residue is linked to the FDA's ongoing investigation of chicken jerky products.
Several thousand consumers have reported to the FDA that their dogs have gotten sick and gotten kidney problems as result of eating jerky treats made in China. The FDA agency said in September 2012 that it had been notified of 360 dogs that died after eating the suspected treats over the last 18 months and is conducting a broad investigation. No definitive cause for the dogs' sicknesses has yet been identified. Irradiation, among other possible causes, is being researched.
The two brands of dog treats are being taken off the market in the U.S. until further notice. For product refund or more information call Purina's Office of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-982-0704 or go to their website www.waggintrainbrand.com for more information on this recall.
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