KGG Investigating Midwestern Pet Food’s SPORTMIX Dog and Cat Food for Causing Pet Illness and Death
Midwestern Pet Food’s Sportmix brand dog and cat food has been recalled due to its dangerously high levels of Aflatoxin, a Toxic Mold that is causing illness and death in pets nationwide. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already issued a nationwide alert about this Toxic Mold, and buyers of Sportmix pet food may be eligible for financial compensation.
Which Specific Varieties of SPORTMIX Pet Food Were Recalled?
The three varieties of Sportmix pet food that have been recalled are:
- Sportmix Original Cat
- Sportmix Premium High Energy
- Sportmix Energy Plus
The recall was initiated after testing indicated that the amount of Aflatoxin in the pet food surpassed the acceptable limits specified by the FDA. This recall was recently expanded to include all pet food products containing corn that were manufactured in Midwestern Pet Food’s Oklahoma plant and have an expiration date on or before July 9, 2022. Midwestern Pet Food’s products are distributed both online and in retail stores.
Why Is Aflatoxin so Dangerous?
This Toxic Mold has killed at least 70 dogs and caused illness in at least 80 other dogs. Aflatoxin is generated from the mold Aspergillus flavus, which commonly grows on grains such as corn that are contained in pet food. High levels of Aflatoxin have been found to cause illness or death in pets, as well as liver damage without symptoms. What makes it extra dangerous is that the toxin can be present even without any mold being visible.
What Are the Symptoms of Aflatoxin Poisoning?
Symptoms indicating that your pet may have Aflatoxin poisoning include the following:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Jaundice, which is a yellowing of the eyes, gums, or skin caused by liver damage
Here Is What the FDA Recommends
Consumers are strongly advised not to feed these three varieties to their pets or any other animals. In fact, the FDA recommends that consumers destroy the products such that no people, pets, or wildlife can consume them.
If your pet has eaten the recalled food, you should contact a veterinarian. And if the recalled food was eaten, the FDA recommends that you use bleach in order to sanitize any bowls, scoops, or containers used to serve or store the food.
While there has not been any evidence indicating that these toxins can poison people who handle the food, the FDA still recommends washing your hands every time you touch your pet’s food.
Pet Owners May Qualify for Compensation
The class action lawyers at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman have the experience, accolades, and reputation that it takes to maximize our clients’ financial recovery.
If you have purchased any of the aforementioned Sportmix varieties and wish to schedule a private consultation with the attorneys at our firm about this matter, please contact class action attorney Melissa R. Emert, Esq., or Gary S. Graifman, Esq., Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., 747 Chestnut Ridge Road – Suite 200, Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 via telephone: (866) 896-0935, fax: (845) 356-4335, or email: [email protected] or [email protected].