Nature's Variety Recalls Some Dog and Cat Food

Nature's Variety recently announced a voluntary recall of Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula with an expiration date of Oct. 4, 2013.

Pieces of clear plastic may be found in some bags and could cause a potential choking risk to pets, the statement said. The source of plastic has been identified and the issue has been resolved.

Nature's Variety is sold at several pet stores nearby stores including Petland in Dunwoody, Petco, Barktown & Suds and Red Bandanna Pet Food in Sandy Springs, and several North Fulton locations.

The affected products includes:

• UPC# 7 69949 60137 1 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula medallions, 3 lbs. bag
• UPC# 7 69949 70137 8 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula medallions, 27 lbs. case
• UPC# 7 69949 60127 2 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula patties, 6 lbs. bag
• UPC# 7 69949 70127 9 – Instinct Raw Organic Chicken Formula patties, 36 lbs. case

The "Best if Used By" date of 10/14/13 is located on the back of the package below the "Contact Us" section. The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States and Canada. No other products were impacted.

Nature's Variety became aware of a potential issue after receiving a consumer complaint. The source of the issue was identified and resolved. To date, there have been no reports of harm to dogs or cats.

Reed Howlett, CEO of Nature's Variety, stated, "At Nature's Variety we take quality and safety very seriously. We believe that under all circumstances, the health and safety of pets comes first."

Consumers feeding the affected product should discontinue use and monitor their pet's health, and contact their veterinarian if they have concerns. Consumers who have purchased one of the above products can obtain a full refund or exchange by either returning the product in its original packaging or bringing a proof of purchase back to their retailer.

Consumers with additional questions can call the Nature's Variety Consumer Relations team at 1-888-519-7387 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST. Or, questions can be emailed directly to cservice@naturesvariety.com.