Research adds to evidence of the risk that contaminated raw pet food poses to human health.
Researchers have found that dog food containing raw meat-based diets (RMBD) available in Portugal may be a source of Salmonella and other Enterobacteriaceae strains that are resistant to last-line antibiotics, such as colistin. We investigated whether there is a sex.
Since 2020, there have been more than 20 reports or recalls of pet food and RMBD in the EU due to detection of pathogens.
According to the published study, between September 2019 and January 2020, 55 samples from 25 brands of different types of meat and dog food from 12 suppliers were screened using standard culture methods. Of the 55 samples published in the journal Eurosurveillance, 41 were processed and 14 were raw.
Promote risk awareness
Only the RMBD batches were contaminated, with 10 of 14 batches containing multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli and one MDR Salmonella. One turkey-based sample was positive for his MDR Salmonella serotypes 1, 4.[5],12:i:- Sequence type 34/cgST142761, similar to human clinical isolates. This finding suggests that raw pet food serves as a potential vector of infection for this serotype, the scientists said.
All six Salmonella isolates were identified as monophasic Salmonella typhimurium and were isolated from the same sample.
Scientists detected 59 E. coli isolates in raw frozen food samples, but none produced Shiga toxin. Four colistin-resistant E. coli isolates were present in two batches from the same pet food brand. All isolates carried the mcr-1 gene.
“Our results strongly suggest that conventionally processed pet food is a safer option and highlight the importance of thermal processing in pet food production to effectively reduce microbiological risks. These findings highlight the need for proactive action involving the pet industry, food safety agencies and pet owners to reduce public health risks. ,” the scientists said.
“Promoting awareness of the potential risks associated with RMBD and educating pet owners on proper handling and feeding practices are important steps to minimizing potential health risks. Pets Proper hygiene measures and safe handling practices should be observed when handling raw or raw pet food to reduce the risk of transmitting MDR bacteria to humans.
Slovenian perspective
Another study investigated risk perceptions in the home environment and self-reported pet food preparation habits among Slovenian pet owners who feed their pets raw meat-based diets.
An online survey was distributed to pet owners through social media groups in 2022, and 750 people were included in the analysis. These were divided into two groups: those who fed their pets a raw meat-based diet and those who did not. The findings were published in the Journal of Consumer Protection and Food Safety.
Only one-third of respondents in both groups were aware of the potentially fatal consequences of food poisoning. Self-reported frequency of hand washing and surface cleaning was significantly higher in the raw group than in the conventional group.
Most respondents in the raw group reported health benefits for their pets as their primary reason for choosing a raw meat-based diet. The main source of information regarding raw pet food was the internet. Guidance for pet owners on the safe handling of raw meat-based pet foods is available from the European Pet Food Industry Federation.
In the raw diet group, poor food safety was noted, with almost half rinsing raw meat before cooking and 42% thawing frozen raw meat at room temperature on the kitchen counter.
“The results of this study demonstrate the importance of raising awareness among Slovenian pet owners about the potential for foodborne illness associated with handling raw meat and raw meat-based diets. Emphasizing the benefits of appropriate food safety behaviors to protect pet owners and their families can serve as an effective strategy to motivate food safety behaviors, but it also helps pet owners avoid risks. after recognizing it,” the researchers said.
Sell on social media from home
Finally, UK household online pet food suppliers selling through social media are being warned of the importance of ensuring the products they sell are legal.
The Heart of the South West Trading Standards carried out test purchases across Somerset and Devon. All 10 companies did not meet labeling requirements. Officers tested dog treats and dog supplements. In both cases, the products were incorrectly labeled.
Companies did not manufacture their own pet food. Eight cases involved repackaging products made by other companies, and two cases involved other companies manufacturing products for their own use.
The trial purchase was carried out in response to concerns about the rapid increase in small-scale feed businesses opening online. Accordingly, five companies are currently registered for feed hygiene, two are retail businesses and are not required to register, and two will soon be registered.
Naomi Osborne, the service's chief agricultural officer, said: “Many of these businesses were set up during or after the pandemic and there is a lack of awareness of the requirements and legal obligations associated with these types of businesses. I was concerned that there was a shortage.
“We were particularly concerned that products could not be substantiated with label claims such as ‘homemade’, ‘unused’ or ‘natural’. We are here to advise and support and intervene if necessary.”
Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Trading Standards, said: “Many small businesses of this type are not registered and as a result are subject to legal and regulatory requirements when producing pet food in a highly regulated environment. “They are not aware of the feed safety requirements.” industry. Accurate labeling is essential to provide transparency and allow pet owners to make informed choices. ”
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