Which Purina Pro Plan was recalled

Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Review

The Purina Pro Plan Adult product line includes the 26 dry dog foods listed below.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Ingredients Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.

After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.

The second ingredient is rice. Is this whole grain rice, brown rice or white rice? Since the word rice doesnt tell us much, its impossible to judge the quality of this item.

The third ingredient is wheat. Like corn, wheat is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain. And aside from its energy content, this grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

For this reason, we do not consider wheat a preferred component in any dog food.

The fourth ingredient is poultry by-product meal, a dry rendered product of slaughterhouse waste. Its made from whats left of slaughtered poultry after all the prime cuts have been removed.

In addition to organs, this item can also include feet, beaks, undeveloped eggs and almost anything other than prime skeletal muscle.

On the brighter side, by-product meals are meat concentrates and contain nearly 300% more protein than fresh poultry.

The quality of this ingredient can vary, depending on the caliber of the raw materials obtained by the manufacturer.

We consider poultry by-products slightly lower in quality than a single-species ingredient (like chicken by-products).

The next ingredient is soybean meal, a by-product of soybean oil production more commonly found in farm animal feeds.

Although soybean meal contains 48% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.

And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The sixth ingredient is beef fat. Beef fat (or tallow) is most likely obtained from rendering, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.

Although it may not sound very appetizing, beef fat is actually a quality ingredient.

The seventh ingredient is corn gluten meal. Gluten is the rubbery residue remaining once corn has had most of its starchy carbohydrate washed out of it.

Although corn gluten meal contains 60% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.

And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The eighth ingredient is corn. Corn is another cereal grain and subject to the same issues as wheat (previously discussed).

The ninth ingredient is dried egg product, a dehydrated form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries from eggs that have failed to hatch.

In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.

The tenth ingredient is fish meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.

Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.¹

Unfortunately, this particular item is anonymous. Because various fish contain different types of fats, we would have preferred to have known the source species.

Other Notable Ingredients

From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.

But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Purina product.

With 6 notable exceptions

First, soybean oil is red flagged here only due to its rumored (yet unlikely) link to canine food allergies.

However, since soybean oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids and contains no omega-3s, its considered less nutritious than flaxseed oil or a named animal fat.

Next, fish oil is naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids. These two high quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans.

Depending on its level of freshness and purity, fish oil should be considered a commendable addition.

In addition, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

Next, we note the inclusion of sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.

Additionally, we find dried fermentation products in this recipe. Fermentation products are typically added as probiotics to aid with digestion.

And lastly, this recipe includes menadione, a controversial form of vitamin K linked to liver toxicity, allergies and the abnormal break-down of red blood cells.

Since vitamin K isnt required by AAFCO in either of its dog food nutrient profiles, we question the use of this substance in any canine formulation.

Nutrient Analysis

Based on its ingredients panel alone, Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food looks like an average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 30%, a fat level of 18% and estimated carbohydrates of about 44%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 31% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 45% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.

Which means that this product line contains

Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to other dry dog foods.

However, when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the soybean and corn gluten meals in this recipe, and the canola meal and pea protein contained in other recipes, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing just a moderate amount of meat.

What Do Others Say About Purina Pro Plan Dog Food?

At the time of this update

Chewy customers rate Purina Pro Plan 4.7 out of 5 stars and 96% say they would recommend it to others.

Heres an actual user review

Sample buyer review You cannot go wrong with Pro Plan, so many blends for so many dogs ! You have to find the right blend for your dog. This Shredded Blend is pretty good. You have the larger kibble mixed with the shreds.The kibble is hard and the shreds are soft. I have three German Shepherds and they love it ! However if they eat it too fast the shreds kinda make them choke a bit. Other than that This blend comes in a 47lb bag ! GREAT !! And at a sweet price of course Try it for your medium to large dog. they will like it.. You can even put warm water on it. they love that !

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Summary

Company Announcement Date:

November 30, 2022

FDA Publish Date:

December 02, 2022

Product Type:

Animal & Veterinary Pet Food

Reason for Announcement:

Recall Reason Description

Mislabeling

Company Name:

Nestle Purina PetCare Company

Brand Name:

Product Description:

Product Description

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Low Fat (PPVD EN Low Fat) prescription wet dog food

Company Announcement

Out of an abundance of caution, Nestl Purina PetCare Company is voluntarily recalling a limited amount of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Low Fat (PPVD EN Low Fat) prescription wet dog food in 13.4 oz cans due to a labeling error. For a brief period on September 15, 2022, cans of a different complete and balanced adult dog food, Purina ONE True Instinct Tender Cuts In Gravy With Real Turkey & Venison wet dog food, were labeled as PPVD EN Low Fat in one of our factories. The mislabeled diet is safe to feed, but it is not the intended formula for dogs requiring a prescription PPVD EN Low Fat diet, who may have sensitivities to traditional diets or difficulty digesting fat.

We became aware of the issue after being contacted by several pet owners who observed the texture of food in their PPVD EN Low Fat cans was not the same as previous meals. The mislabeled product contains chunks in gravy, while the correct product looks more like a pate consistency.

While we have not received any reports to date of illness or injury to dogs fed this mislabeled product, we are conducting this voluntary recall as a precaution. The affected product was available by prescription only and distributed through veterinary clinics and other retailers with the ability to validate a prescription. We have asked our veterinary and other retail partners to remove the affected product. We also recommend that you discard any of the affected product you may have, and we will replace it as quickly as possible.

You can identify the mislabeled product by the UPC (38100 17599), production code (22581159 L4TR6) and Best Before Sept 2024 date on the bottom of each PPVD EN Low Fat can.

No other Purina products are impacted by this voluntary recall. We apologize to pet owners for any concerns or inconvenience this situation has caused. Were pet owners too, and we know how important the health and well-being of our pets is, which is what led us to make this decision. We are taking action to investigate and notify pet owners and veterinarians of the situation. At Purina, pets always come first.

Please reach out to our team with any questions at 1-800-579-7733, Monday-Saturday, 8am - 5pm CST or via email at https://www.purina.com/contact-us.

Voluntary Recall of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Low Fat Wet Dog Food

Company Contact Information

Purina Pro Plan Recall: What Pet Owners Need to Know

As pet parents, we always prioritize the safety and health of our furry companions. When a renowned brand like Purina recalls one of its products, its imperative to understand the reasons and implications. This article dives deep into the recent recall of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, providing all the details you need to ensure the safety of your pets.

A Timeline of Events

December 2, 2022

Out of abundant caution, Nestl Purina PetCare Company made its initial voluntary recall of a limited amount of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN.

February 8, 2023

The company expanded its recall, targeting select lots of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry food.

March 10, 2023

In less than a month, Nestl Purina PetCare Company made a further announcement expanding its voluntary recall, once again emphasizing the PPVD EL prescription dry variant.

Why Was the Purina Pro Plan Recalled?

The FDA alerts shed light on the recalls root cause. In February 2023, the focus revolved around potential health risks associated with select lots of the PPVD EL prescription diet. Although the specific health concerns havent been elaborated on in detail from the shared resources, an abundance of caution was consistently cited, suggesting potential adverse reactions in pets.

Community Response

Pet owners have been actively discussing the recall on platforms like Reddit. Some express concern over the frequency of recalls from Purina, while others emphasize that the affected product is a specific niche prescription diet, with a limited number of adverse reactions reported.

How to Identify Affected Products

Based on available information, pet owners should be cautious of 8- and 20-lb bags of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL). As always, the lot number on pet food products can be a crucial identifier, and in case of recalls, its the key to distinguishing safe products from potentially harmful ones.

Expert Opinions and Recommendations

Although the reasons for the recall have been kept somewhat vague, veterinarians generally advise pet owners to discontinue any food immediately if it falls under a recall. This is especially true for prescription diets, given their targeted audience of pets with specific health needs.

What Do Vets Think of Purina Pro Plan?

1. Research-Backed Nutrition

Many veterinarians commend Purina Pro Plan for its commitment to research and evidence-based nutrition. The brand has invested significantly in understanding the dietary needs of pets at every life stage. With over 500 scientists, including veterinarians and nutritionists, working behind the scenes, Purinas commitment to producing balanced and nourishing pet food is evident.

2. Specialty Diets

Purina Pro Plan offers a broad range of specialty diets, designed for pets with specific needs. Whether its a cat with urinary tract health issues or a dog with sensitive skin, Purina Pro Plan tends to have a product tailored to address those concerns. Veterinarians often appreciate this diversity as it allows them to recommend specific formulas for particular health challenges.

3. Quality Control Standards

Veterinarians often highlight the rigorous quality control measures that Purina implements. Their 99-step production process includes ingredient sourcing, safety protocols, and testing the finished products. Such stringent measures can instill confidence in veterinarians when suggesting Purina Pro Plan to pet owners.

4. Real Meat as Primary Ingredient

A notable feature of the Purina Pro Plan line is the use of real meat as the primary ingredient. Veterinarians emphasize the importance of quality protein sources for pets, and the brands focus on real chicken, lamb, or salmon, among others, meets this requirement. It ensures pets are getting a diet based on natural meat products, essential for muscle development and overall health.

5. Therapeutic Diets

Beyond their standard offerings, Purina Pro Plan also has a range of veterinary diets. These therapeutic diets cater to pets with specific medical conditions. Such diets, available mostly on prescription, are invaluable tools for veterinarians to manage conditions ranging from obesity to renal issues.

6. Palatability

An often-underestimated aspect of pet food is its taste. No matter how nutritious, if a pet doesnt find the food palatable, it wont be consumed. Many veterinarians have noted that pets seem to enjoy the taste of Purina Pro Plan, making dietary transitions smoother and ensuring pets receive the nutrition they need without fuss.

7. Continued Education for Vets

Purina has initiated several programs and workshops aimed at educating veterinarians about pet nutrition. By fostering a deeper understanding of dietary needs and the science behind their products, Purina ensures that veterinarians can make informed recommendations.

Potential Concerns

While many veterinarians trust and recommend Purina Pro Plan, no brand is without its critics. Some concerns raised in the veterinary community revolve around the use of certain ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy, which can be problematic for some pets. However, its worth noting that these ingredients can be found in many pet foods and are not inherently harmful unless the pet has a specific sensitivity or allergy.

Conclusion

The recent recalls from Nestl Purina PetCare Company emphasize the importance of staying informed and being proactive as pet owners. While the brand has taken voluntary steps to ensure consumer safety, pet parents should always monitor their pets for any signs of distress or illness, especially if they have consumed a product thats been recalled.

FAQs on Purina Pro Plan Recall

1. What specific products under Purina Pro Plan were affected by the recall?

The recall primarily targets the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry food variant. Specifically, the focus is on 8- and 20-lb bags. Its essential to verify the lot numbers and compare them with those listed in the recall announcements to ensure the products safety.

2. Have any pets been adversely affected by the recalled product?

As of now, there have been limited reports of adverse reactions in pets, based on discussions and reports from platforms like Reddit and FDA announcements. However, its always advisable for pet owners to monitor their pets for any unusual behaviors or symptoms after consuming the product.

3. How can I check if my Purina product is part of the recall?

Check the packaging for the product name, and more importantly, the lot number. The lot number is often printed on the back or bottom of the bag. Cross-reference this number with the list provided in the official recall announcement. If in doubt, contacting Purinas customer service can provide clarity.

4. What should I do if I have the recalled product at home?

If you possess a product that matches the description and lot numbers of the recalled items:

• Immediately stop feeding it to your pet.
• Seal the product in a bag or container to prevent accidental consumption.
• Follow the manufacturers or retailers instructions for product return or disposal.
• Monitor your pet for any signs of illness and consult with a veterinarian if any symptoms arise.

5. Why are prescription diets like PPVD EL so crucial, and what are the alternatives?

Prescription diets, such as PPVD EL, are formulated to address specific health conditions in pets. They might have unique nutrient profiles or ingredients to cater to pets with allergies, digestive issues, or other health concerns. If your pet was on this diet, its essential to consult with your veterinarian before transitioning them to an alternative to ensure the new diet meets their health needs.

6. How often does Purina recall its products?

While Purina is a renowned brand in the pet food industry, like all manufacturers, it has faced recalls in the past. The frequency can vary based on various factors, including quality checks, ingredient sourcing, and manufacturing processes. Its essential for consumers to stay updated with official channels and regulatory bodies like the FDA for the latest information.

7. Is it safe to feed other Purina products to my pet during this time?

The current recall is specific to the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry food. Other Purina products have not been flagged in this particular recall. However, always practice due diligence by checking the product details and staying updated with the latest information from trustworthy sources.

8. Are there any common symptoms I should look out for in my pet if they consumed the recalled product?

While the exact health concerns regarding the recalled product have not been detailed extensively, pet owners should be vigilant about symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or any other unusual behaviors. If any such signs are observed, seek veterinary advice immediately.

9. How does Purina handle product recalls in terms of consumer refunds or replacements?

Typically, companies like Purina offer a full refund for recalled products when returned to the place of purchase. In some instances, replacements may also be provided. Its advisable to retain any purchase receipts and contact Purinas customer service for specific guidance tailored to the recall in question.

10. What steps is Purina taking to prevent future recalls of this nature?

While specific details vary per incident, manufacturers like Purina often undertake rigorous investigations to pinpoint the source of the issue. This can involve scrutinizing the supply chain, enhancing quality control measures, and bolstering employee training. Regular updates about such preventative measures are often shared with the public through press releases or official statements.

11. How can I stay informed about future recalls on pet foods?

Subscribing to FDA alerts, checking reputable pet food industry websites, and registering your product (if such an option exists) are reliable ways to stay informed. Many pet owners also join related online forums or social media groups, like the mentioned Reddit communities, for real-time updates from other consumers.

12. Are there third-party tests or reviews I can rely on to check the safety of pet food brands?

Several independent organizations and labs periodically test pet foods for various parameters, from nutritional value to potential contaminants. Websites like Consumer Reports, Dog Food Advisor, or Lab Door often offer insights based on their evaluations. However, always consider the date and methodology of such reviews to ensure relevance and accuracy.

13. Why was the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental specifically targeted in the recall?

Product recalls often stem from specific concerns related to an ingredient batch, manufacturing process, or storage conditions unique to a particular product variant. In this case, details around the exact reason for the recall of the PPVD EL variety would be outlined in the official recall statement released by Purina or the FDA.

14. Are there any health concerns linked to other Veterinary Diet lines from Purina?

As of the information available up to this date, the focus has been on the PPVD EL variant. Its important to understand that each product line has its formulation, ingredients, and manufacturing process. Thus, concerns around one product dont automatically translate to others. However, due diligence in monitoring official channels and seeking clarity from veterinarians remains essential.

15. If Ive fed my pet the recalled product and they seem healthy, should I still consult a veterinarian?

While not showing immediate symptoms is a positive sign, its always a prudent choice to consult with a veterinarian after feeding any recalled product. Some effects may not be immediately visible, and a professional can provide guidance on any necessary monitoring or preventive care.

16. How long does it typically take for a company to resolve a recall issue?

The resolution time can vary based on the root cause of the recall. Factors include the extent of the affected product batch, the nature of the contaminant, and required modifications to the production process. Generally, companies work diligently to address the issue, but it can range from weeks to several months before a product returns to the shelves.

17. Do all countries get affected by a product recall if they sell the same product?

Not necessarily. The recall may pertain to a specific batch of products, and these could be limited to a particular region or country, depending on distribution channels. Always check local notifications and announcements to determine the relevance of an international recall in your country.

18. What should I look for in my pet if they have consumed a recalled product?

Symptoms can range from mild to severe based on the contaminant. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and unusual behavior. However, some contaminants may lead to long-term health effects without immediate symptoms. Always consult a vet if unsure.

19. How often do pet food recalls occur?

While it might seem like recalls are frequent due to the speed of information dissemination, they are relatively rare compared to the vast amounts of pet food produced. However, even one recall is significant, so staying informed and practicing due diligence is crucial.

20. Is homemade pet food a safer alternative to avoid recalls?

Homemade pet food allows for greater control over ingredients, but its not necessarily safer. Nutritional imbalances, contamination of raw ingredients, and inadequate preservation can introduce health risks. If considering a homemade diet, its crucial to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to ensure a balanced and safe diet.

21. Can I get compensation if my pet gets sick due to a recalled product?

Companies often provide compensation for the returned recalled product, but additional compensation varies case-by-case. If a pet falls seriously ill, owners may need to consult legal avenues. Its crucial to retain any evidence, including the product, its packaging, and medical records.

22. How are pet food products monitored for safety before reaching the consumer?

Regulations require pet food manufacturers to adhere to strict safety and quality guidelines. This includes testing ingredients, monitoring production processes, and regularly inspecting facilities. Third-party audits and random checks by regulatory bodies also ensure product safety.

23. Should I switch brands after a recall?

While a recall might raise concerns, it doesnt necessarily indicate a chronic problem with the brand. Many reputable brands have faced recalls but have taken measures to rectify and prevent future issues. Research the brands history, responsiveness to the recall, and consult with a veterinarian to make an informed decision.

24. Does pet insurance cover health issues arising from recalled products?

Coverage varies among providers. Some pet insurance policies might cover illnesses resulting from recalled products, but its essential to read the policys terms and conditions or contact the insurance provider directly.

25. Can a single ingredient trigger a product recall?

Yes, if an ingredient is found to be contaminated or potentially harmful, it can lead to a recall of all products containing that ingredient. This is why sometimes multiple brands recall products simultaneously if they source ingredients from the same supplier.

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