FDA probes pet food for human safety

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The Food and Drug Administration says it is stepping up its efforts to test pet food for salmonella. While the health of pets is a concern, the focus for this one year study will be on the health of humans.

In a news release posted on the FDA’s website, the agency’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) says it is “concerned about animal feeds serving as vehicles for transmitting pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria to humans.”

The agency’s concern is over a problem that has been well-established. Between January 2006 and December 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 70 human cases of salmonella poisoning were linked to dry dog foods that were manufactured by a company in the U.S. In most cases, humans were sickened by touching infected pet food, then ingesting the bacteria when they didn’t wash their hands.

The testing began in October and will cover dog and cat food, as well as feed for rabbits, reptiles, birds, aquarium fish and rodents such as hamsters, mice and guinea pigs.

During the study, the FDA will collect samples of non-canned pet food, pet treats and pet supplements from major store chains such as PetSmart, PetCo, WalMart, Costco, Sam’s Club, and Target. They will test samples of each major product for salmonella.

Salmonella is most commonly contracted by eating raw meat, seafood and poultry, according to the Mayo Clinic. Many foods become contaminated when prepared by people who don't wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing a diaper. Infection also can occur if you touch something that is contaminated, including pets, especially birds and reptiles, and then put your fingers in your mouth.

To lower your risk of salmonella poisoning, the CDC has these suggestions:

• Store pet food in a plastic container away from your food pantry.
• Move your pet's food bowl to a separate room, away from your kitchen.
• Use a separate scoop for pet food; don't scoop pet food with the feeding bowl.
• Wash your hands after every feeding or dispensation of pet treats.