The Kroger Co. recalled select petfood packages in 19 states due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with aflatoxin, a chemical by-product from fungus that could be harmful to animals.
The recall involves select bags of Pet Pride Cat Food, Pet Pride Kitten Food, Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food, Kroger Value Cat Food and Kroger Value Chunk Food. Most of the recalled products have an expiration date of October 23 or 24, 2011, according to the company. Kroger-operated stores in the following states are included in the recall: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia, USA.
The company urges customers who may have purchased the food to consult a veterinarian immediately if their animals show any signs of sluggishness or lethargy combined with a reluctance to eat. Other warning signs include yellowish tinted eyes or gums, severe blood and diarrhea, the company said. Kroger set up a customer recall notification system to help customers determine whether or not they purchased any of the contaminated products. A detailed list of all affected products can be found on Kroger's website.