A new safety alert has been issued with dog food recalled nationwide after contamination risks were discovered in raw pet food products. On August 25, 2025, Charlotte-based Viva Raw voluntarily recalled two production lots of frozen pet food following testing that revealed the presence of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.
The affected food, sold in 1-pound clear vacuum-sealed bricks, was shipped directly to customers across the United States and stocked by select retailers in multiple states. This nationwide recall highlights growing concerns over raw pet diets and the potential dangers they can pose when bacteria are present.
What Products Are Affected
The recall applies to specific lots produced earlier this summer. Details include:
- Lot 21495: Ground Beef for Dogs and Beef & Turkey for Puppies
- Lot 21975: Ground Chicken for Dogs, Chunked Chicken for Dogs, Chicken for Cats, and Pure Chicken
Distribution occurred between July 2 and August 21, 2025, reaching households nationwide along with stores in New York, Illinois, South Carolina, Florida, Kansas, California, and Arizona.
Health Risks for Pets and People
The discovery of both Salmonella and Listeria in pet food raises concerns for animals and humans alike. Pets infected with these pathogens may show signs such as:
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Decreased appetite
Even if animals appear healthy, they can shed harmful bacteria in their stool or saliva, exposing owners.
For people, the risks are equally serious. Handling contaminated pet food can cause illness, with symptoms including nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever. In vulnerable groups—such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems—exposure could lead to severe complications.
What Pet Owners Should Do
Viva Raw has urged all customers to take immediate action if they have products from the affected lots. Recommended steps include:
- Stop using the food immediately and ensure children, pets, or wildlife cannot access it.
- Dispose of recalled items safely in a sealed bag to prevent accidental contact.
- Clean and sanitize all bowls, utensils, and surfaces that came into contact with the food.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling.
- Contact the company for a refund or replacement.
- Seek veterinary care if pets show signs of illness.
- Consult a healthcare provider if any family members experience symptoms after exposure.
At this time, no confirmed cases of illness in either pets or humans have been linked to these products, but the recall remains a precautionary step to prevent potential harm.
Why This Recall Matters
This recall is an important reminder that raw diets for pets, while increasingly popular, can carry higher risks of bacterial contamination. Cooking typically kills harmful organisms, but raw products require extra vigilance.
The proactive action taken in this case shows how routine testing and regulatory oversight can prevent wider outbreaks. By detecting contamination early, the company was able to quickly initiate a recall before serious health issues arose.
Viva Raw has stated that it is reviewing its food safety protocols and enhancing sanitation processes to reduce the chances of similar problems in the future.
Recall Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Company | Viva Raw LLC |
| Date Announced | August 25, 2025 |
| Lots Affected | 21495 and 21975 |
| Products | Ground Beef, Beef & Turkey, Ground Chicken, Chunked Chicken, Chicken (Dogs & Cats), Pure Chicken |
| Distribution | July 2 – August 21, 2025; shipped nationwide |
| Issue | Contamination with Salmonella and Listeria |
| Action Required | Dispose, request refund, sanitize, monitor pet health |
Final Thoughts
The latest recall demonstrates how closely pet food safety is monitored and why owners must stay informed. While no illnesses have been reported so far, quick disposal of affected products and careful hygiene practices remain essential.
Pet owners who purchased food from Viva Raw during the listed distribution period are urged to double-check packaging, follow recall instructions, and remain alert to any signs of illness in their pets or households.
Your awareness and action can protect both your furry companions and your family.
We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share experiences or questions in the comments below, and check back for ongoing updates on pet food safety.