On the path to wellbeing, it is essential to understand how food system challenges impact those around you, including your pets. Recent news articles about the illnesses tied to jerky treats manufactured in China underscore the importance of awareness. Since 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been trying to identify the mysterious intoxicant present in these treats that, to date, have killed nearly 600 pets and sickened over 3,600 others.
A scroll through the FDA’s listing of recalls and safety alerts sheds light on additional problems such as salmonella threats, unapproved antibiotic residue, labeling errors and elevated aflatoxin levels (a poison byproduct of mold). It is a sobering reminder that animals are especially vulnerable to the shortcomings within our industrial food system.
Things are beginning to change. The FDA recently proposed a rule under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) aimed at improving the safety of food for animals. Although a significant step, it is too early in the approval process to gauge its impact. Plus, its main focus is on manufacturing practices. This should lead you to the same conclusion you’ve probably reached with your own wellbeing—it’s your responsibility to choose nutritious and wholesome food.
When shopping for your pet, you can apply the same level of consciousness that you bring to selecting your own food. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Buy pet food with USDA Organic certification
- Avoid pet foods with artificial colorings, byproducts, GMOs and chemical preservatives like Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) and Butylated Hydroxysanisole (BHA) that are banned from human use in many countries outside the U.S.
- Look for terms like “free range” and “grass fed” on the label to reduce risk of exposure to hormones and antibiotics
- Read up on how labeling guidelines work, so you understand what words like “dinner” mean in terms of nutritional content
- Periodically check the FDA listing of recalls and safety alerts to stay informed on potential pet health risks
One other thing to remember is that a pet’s greatest threat can come from within your home. Be mindful of everything you put in, on or around them. At typically a fraction of the size of a human, a pet can be severely impacted by toxins found in common household items like cleaning products, insect and flea control products, lawn fertilizers, mothballs, human medications, chocolate and a host of other things.
How do you protect your pet? Have you ever had a close call? Help to raise awareness of dangers by sharing your story.
