• FSA Assesses Raw Pet Food Risk to Animals and People

    FSA Assesses Raw Pet Food Risk to Animals and People

    The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has conducted a comprehensive analysis of the risks associated with dogs and cats consuming contaminated raw pet food. This assessment also considers the impact on the people who feed these products to their pets. Raw pet food has gained popularity in recent years, but it poses unique challenges due to its handling and potential contamination.

    Raw pet food, made from Category 3 Animal-By-Products (ABP), is surplus to requirements in slaughterhouses. These products are not cooked or heat-treated, leaving them susceptible to pathogens. Sold primarily in frozen form with long shelf lives, raw pet food can harbor Salmonella, beta-glucuronidase-positive E. coli, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), Campylobacter, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

    Assessing the Risks

    1. Risk to Animals

    Salmonella and Campylobacter

    Raw pet food poses a medium risk to dogs and cats regarding Salmonella contamination. While Campylobacter contamination is rare, it does occur. Pet owners must handle these products with care to prevent cross-contamination.

    STEC (Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli)

    The risk of STEC infection from raw pet food is low for dogs and very low for cats. However, proper handling remains crucial.

    2. Risk to Humans

    Handling raw pet food at home can lead to human infection. The FSA emphasizes hygiene practices such as washing hands after handling, storing products away from human food, and cleaning surfaces that come into contact with the raw food. In the past, cases of STEC infection were linked to exposure to dogs fed a raw meat-based diet.

    Survey Results

    A recent FSA survey tested raw dog and cat food products sold in the UK. Preliminary findings indicate that 20% of samples were positive for Salmonella, 11% for Campylobacter, 9% for MRSA, and 11% for STEC. Packaging advice varied among manufacturers, highlighting the need for consistent guidelines.

    Raw pet food presents both risks and benefits. Pet owners should be informed about safe handling practices to protect their animals and themselves. Remember, proper hygiene matters when dealing with raw pet food.