Recent research has underscored the potential risks posed by contaminated raw pet food to human health, shedding light on the prevalence of pathogens such as Salmonella and multidrug-resistant bacteria in raw meat-based diets (RMBD) for dogs.
A study conducted in Portugal examined various types of dog food, including RMBDs, available in the market between September 2019 and January 2020. Out of 55 samples from 25 different brands supplied by 12 suppliers, 41 were processed and 14 were raw. The findings, published in Eurosurveillance, revealed that only the batches of RMBDs were contaminated, with 10 out of 14 samples containing multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli and one harboring MDR Salmonella. Notably, one turkey-based sample tested positive for MDR Salmonella serotype 1,4,[5],12:i:- sequence type 34/cgST142761, which resembles strains found in human clinical isolates, suggesting a potential transmission route through raw pet food.
Furthermore, six monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium isolates were identified from a single sample. Although no Shiga toxin-producing E. coli was detected, four colistin-resistant E. coli isolates containing the mcr-1 gene were found in samples from the same pet food brand.
The study’s lead scientists emphasized the importance of heat treatment in pet food production to mitigate microbiological hazards, suggesting that conventionally processed pet food may present a safer option. They called for proactive measures involving the pet industry, food safety agencies, and pet owners to mitigate health risks associated with raw pet food consumption.
Public Awareness and Safe Handling Practices Encouraged
In a related study in Slovenia, researchers investigated pet owners’ risk perceptions and food preparation practices related to raw meat-based diets. A survey distributed to pet owners revealed that while a significant portion were unaware of the potential consequences of food poisoning, those who provided raw diets exhibited better hygiene practices compared to conventional pet food users.
Despite reporting perceived health benefits for pets as a primary motivation for choosing raw diets, respondents demonstrated concerning food safety practices, such as rinsing raw meat before preparation and thawing frozen raw meat at room temperature.
Researchers emphasized the need to raise awareness among Slovenian pet owners about the risks associated with handling raw meat-based diets to promote safer food handling practices and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Regulatory Concerns Over Online Pet Food Sales
Separately, concerns have been raised in England regarding the legality and safety of pet food sold online by home-based businesses via social media platforms. Recent test purchases across Somerset and Devon by the Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service revealed widespread non-compliance with labeling requirements among such businesses.
Of the 10 businesses tested, all failed to meet labeling standards, with several repackaging or subcontracting pet food production without proper adherence to regulatory guidelines. Authorities have cautioned against misleading labeling claims and stressed the importance of accurate product information to empower pet owners to make informed choices.
Naomi Osborne, lead officer for agriculture at the trading standards service, emphasized the necessity for these businesses to understand and comply with industry regulations to ensure the safety and transparency of pet food products.
Devon County Council’s cabinet member for trading standards, Rufus Gilbert, echoed the importance of accurate labeling to foster consumer trust and safety within the highly regulated pet food industry.
The findings from these studies and regulatory actions underscore the critical need for heightened awareness, improved safety practices, and stringent regulatory oversight to safeguard both pet and human health in the context of raw pet food consumption.
