The FDA is alerting pet owners about potential pentobarbital contamination in some canned dog foods manufactured by the J.M. Smucker Company. Positive pentobarbital results came in for certain cans of Smucker Dog Foods Gravy Train dog food. The company withdrew various canned dog food products from its Gravy Train, Kibbles ‘N Bits, Ol’ Roy, and Skippy brands.
The FDA conducted a preliminary investigation of the testing results and found that the low level of pentobarbital in the Smucker Dog Foods products is “unlikely to pose a health risk to pets.” But this chemical should never be present in pet food. Products that contain this compound are considered adulterated.
You can report complaints about this and other pet food products through the Safety Reporting Portal. You can also call your local FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
The list of products that have been recalled is very long. You can see that list, along with UPC numbers and package sizes, at the page of the FDA’s notice. The government has become aware of reports of other products that have been withdrawn, and has requested clarification from Smuckers regarding their status.
Pentobarbital is a drug that is used as a sedative and anesthetic for animals. It is also used for euthanasia. Pets that eat pet food with this compound can experience drowsiness, dizziness, excitement, loss of balance, nausea, nystagmus (eyes moving back and forth in a jerky manner) and the inability to stand. Consuming high levels of pentobarbital can cause coma and death. If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms, see your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Consumer should not feed their pets the withdrawn lots of J.M. Smucker pet food. If you bought them, dispose them in a way so other animals can’t get at them. You can also contact the firm for information about returning the products.
