Important Recall Alert: Health Department Issues Salmonella Warning for Turtle Food – What You Need to Know

The Hawaii Department of Health has issued a warning about a recall of turtle food due to a potential salmonella risk. Spectrum Brands Pet LLC, the maker of Tetra ReptoMin 3-In-1 SELECT-A-FOOD for aquatic turtles, announced this voluntary recall. This specific product was sold in Walmart stores in Hawaii and online via Chewy and Amazon.

The affected product comes in a 1.56-ounce container with a green label. The Universal Product Code (UPC) is “0 46798 78626 9,” and the lot code is “951790.” Only this lot is involved in the recall; other products in their line are safe for consumption.

While aquatic turtles are not commonly affected by salmonella, they can carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms. This can pose a risk to other animals and humans. If your pet has eaten the recalled food and shows signs of illness—such as lethargy, diarrhea, fever, or vomiting—contact your veterinarian immediately.

Salmonella infections can occur by handling contaminated products, coming into contact with pets that have ingested the food, or touching surfaces that have been in contact with the contaminated item. Ensuring good hygiene is crucial to reduce the risk of illness, especially for infants, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.

The symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most people recover with little to no treatment, but some cases can lead to hospitalizations. If you experience severe symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

So far, there have been no reports linking the recalled product to any illnesses. If you have any of the recalled products, dispose of them safely, ensuring they are out of reach from children and animals.

For disposal, the Department of Health recommends using gloves to handle the contaminated food, sealing it in a plastic bag, and sanitizing any areas that may have come into contact with it. For more information, consumers can reach Spectrum Brands Pet LLC at 1-800-586-0650 or via email at aquaticssupport@spectrumbrands.com.

This recall highlights the ongoing concerns regarding food safety and animal health. According to a recent survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, nearly 30% of pet owners reported being unaware of potential hazards in pet food. This incident serves as a reminder for pet owners to stay informed about product recalls and to practice safe feeding habits.

For more insights on salmonella risks, see the CDC’s information on salmonella.

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