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In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public health advisory regarding several lots of Darwin's Natural Selections raw pet food, manufactured by Arrow Reliance Inc. Lab results has confirmed that Five lots had Salmonella; one had Listeria monocytogenes. Despite FDA's request, Darwin’s refused to recall, prompting a public consumer warning. [1]

Darwin's Natural Pet Products Advisory Salmonella & Listeria Contamination Alert 

Recall , July 07, 2025

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In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public health advisory regarding several lots of Darwin’s Natural Selections raw pet food, manufactured by Arrow Reliance Inc. Lab results has confirmed that Five lots had Salmonella; one had Listeria monocytogenes. Despite FDA’s request, Darwin’s refused to recall, prompting a public consumer warning. [1]

Affected Products: Summary Table

Lot Number

Product Description

Species

Production Date

9774

Chicken with Organic Vegetables

Dog

June 13, 2023

9795

Chicken Recipe

Cat

June 28, 2023

9830

Chicken Recipe

Cat

July 19, 2023

9802

Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken

Cat

July 7, 2023

Unlisted

Two additional lots with confirmed pathogen contamination

N/A

N/A

Packaging: All items were packed in 2-lb clear vacuum-sealed plastic packs with lot numbers near the lower-left corner. Products were sold via subscription and shipped nationwide. [2]

darwins Natureal Pet food

Image source: U.S. Food & Drug Administration – Advisory on Darwin’s Natural Pet Products due to Salmonella contamination (FDA, September 2024)

Health Risks to Pets and Humans

For Pets

Symptoms include:

  • Vomiting
  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Lethargy

Even asymptomatic pets may shed the pathogens, increasing household exposure risk.

For Humans

Transmission Risks Infection may spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Vulnerable groups include:

  • Infants
  • Elderly
  • Pregnant individuals
  • Immunocompromised persons

Symptoms:

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • In rare cases, bloodstream infections and neurological issues (Listeria)

FDA Advisory vs. Manufacturer Response

In case of Company’s stance Darwin’s claimed low pathogen levels and defended its safety processes:

  • Pathogens were found in product only after extended incubation.
  • Their raw products are available to customers with an inherently low microbial load.
  • Typically, they pre-treated it with antimicrobials, followed a USDA audited sources for food supply.

The FDA disagreed and maintained it “was unsafe” and aligned with previous history of illness associated with illness from raw food.[3]

Darwins Natural Pet Products Advisory Thumbnail

Regulatory / Agency Guidance

Manufacturers must adhere to:

  • FDA 21 CFR Part 507: Requires preventive controls, sanitation monitoring and verified microbial testing of animal food.
  • FSMA Required actions: Must maintain traceability, hazard analysis, corrective action plan.
  • Labeling requirements: Must contain safe handling instructions and a raw product risk disclosure.[4] [5]

This collective action will mitigate risk, ensure pet safety, and maintain consumer confidence in the safety of pet food products.

(fda.gov, foodsafetynews.com, fda.gov)

Manufacturer’s Guidance

Companies that manufacture raw pet food should:

  • Carry out routine microbial testing (Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli) at batch level;
  •  Put in place HACCP type sanitation plans.
  • Improve recall preparedness and consumer notice.
  •  Keep detailed records on their supply chain and sourcing practices; and
  •  Verify product labeling and compliance with FDA pet food rules.[6]

FRL Commentary

This advisory warns against the risk of dereliction of food safety responsibilities in the raw pet food industry. The refusal (on Darwin’s part) to recall contaminated lots shows a considerable public health liability even before it went further downhill. At Food Research Lab we recommend:

 
  • Risk-Based Testing: Employ test-and-hold mechanisms to avoid releasing contaminated products.
  • Transparency: Tell regulators first and be as forthcoming as possible to share your testing findings with transparency.
  • Traceability: End-to-end tracking of ingredients and batches to help ensure you can quickly respond.
  • Compliance support: Use independent third-party compliance audits and scientific substantiation before distributing products.

FRL works with manufacturers on microbial testing programs, FSMA compliance programs & recall prevention activities.

Guidance for Pet Owners

If you possess any affected product:

  1. Stop feeding immediately.
  2. Dispose of the product in sealed bags.
  3. Disinfect freezers, bowls, and storage areas.
  4. Wash hands and clothing thoroughly.
  5. Watch for symptoms; contact a vet if pets become sick.
  1. If you or anyone you are with is sick, consult a doctor and notify them of the potential exposure. [7]

Stay Informed:

Visit the FDA Recalls & Safety Alerts page for updates or to report adverse events.

Conclusion

The advisory highlights the zoonotic risks of poorly regulated raw pet foods. The failure to recall known contaminated lots does not protect the consumer. The Darwin, incident demonstrates that there is an urgent need for compliance with regulations (i.e. HACCP, testing regimen, etc.) with respect to the crafted advisory and communication of recalls. It is time for pet food brands to act responsibly and protect both pets and people.

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