Dry Pet Food May Cause Salmonella Outbreak, Study Finds Out

August 10th, 2010 - 7:33 pm ICT by GD  

By Ranjan Bhaduri
cat_eatingAug 10, (THAINDIAN NEWS) A recent study conducted by the Ohio Department of Health, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the FDA and CDC has pointed at dry pet supplements and foods for salmonella infection in humans. The researchers have analyzed food relate infection cases from 2006 to 2008 and after that they have reached this conclusion. The infection affects the toddlers the most the study has revealed. The infection is contagious and in most of the cases it spread through touch. The investigators are of the opinion that the root of the infection lies at the facilities where the pet food is manufactured and packaged. The food is sprayed with a flavor in a room before they are packed into containers. Since the room is moist the bacteria can exist there and get into the food easily.

Salmonella has the capacity to survive in the foods for months and hence it can spread fast and affect the buyers of pet foods. The researchers are of the opinion that dry pet food manufacturing companies should change the way the pet food is packaged and processed to cut down the chance of contamination. It may be noted in this context that a few weeks back Procter and Gamble recalled number of dry pet foods for salmonella infection.

The experts are of the opinion even if pet food is not contaminated the pet owners should be cautious when they feed their pets. It is better to use scoops instead of hands. Besides, one should also wash his hands after feeding his pets. The finding has created sensation in the medical community.

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