Pet Food Recall Hits Natural Foods Segment

PACOIMA, Calif.—Natural Balance has recalled several of its pet food products after laboratory tests showed the products contain melamine, the chemical behind the recall of more than 100 brands of pet foods started months ago. Included in the Natural Balance recall are its Venison and Brown Rice canned and bagged dog foods, its Venison and Brown Rice dog treats, and its Venison and Green Pea dry cat food. These products do not contain wheat gluten, which was the alleged culprit in the earlier pet food recalls by conventional pet food brands; but, they do contain what is believed to be contaminated rice protein concentrate, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Natural Balance said the recall was prompted by consumer complaints it received involving a small number of cats and dogs that developed kidney failure after eating the product. They advised that dogs or cats that have consumed the suspect food and show signs of kidney failure (such as loss of appetite, lethargy and vomiting) should be seen by a veterinarian. In announcing the recall, the company stated, “We recommend our customers immediately stop feeding our recalled venison products regardless of date code and return unused product to their retailer for a full refund.”

Management further noted while the problems seem to be focused on a particular production run of the venison products, they have begun notifying their distributors and retailers by phone and e-mail to immediately stop selling and return all recalled Venison dog foods and treats and the Venison dry cat food. Venison canned cat food is not involved. In fact, no other Natural Balance product contains the rice protein ingredient, which was only recently added to the dry venison formulas.

For more information on the recall, contact Natural Balance at (800) 829-4493 or info@naturalbalanceinc.com.

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