Vitakraft Sun Seed, of Weston, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling one lot of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella can affect animals consuming the product and poses a risk to humans who handle contaminated pet products, especially if they do not thoroughly wash their hands after contact with the products, animal waste, or any surfaces exposed to these products.
The company was informed on June 18, 2024, by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture that Salmonella was detected in an inspection sample from Lot Number 417429. The bacteria were identified through random testing conducted by the state of Minnesota on consumer products, not as a result of any consumer complaints. To date, no illnesses have been reported.
The recalled hedgehog food is labeled "Vita Prima" by Sunseed. The packaging is predominantly yellow and white, featuring a picture of a hedgehog in the bottom left corner. The product is marketed as "wholesome nutrition" and "all-in-one pellet," with key features highlighted on the package including "vitamin fortified," "highly digestible," and "high in protein." The net weight of the product is 25 ounces (708 grams), and the background includes images of grains.
Products from the recalled lot were distributed to the following states: Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Hedgehogs infected with Salmonella may exhibit lethargy, bloody or mucoid diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite, dehydration, and possibly death. Infected but otherwise healthy hedgehogs can carry and shed the pathogen without showing symptoms, potentially infecting other animals or humans. To prevent the transmission of this zoonotic disease, it is essential to thoroughly wash hands after handling animals, their food, food dishes, and waste. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and shows any symptoms, please contact your veterinarian for appropriate care.
Healthy individuals infected with Salmonella should monitor for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare cases, Salmonella can cause more severe conditions, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after contact with this product should seek medical attention.
