Costco Recalls Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food

Costco has just recalled some batches of their Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food. The recalled cans of the Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food were sold in a two-flavor variety pack between August 22, 2006 and April 24, 2007. They are printed with a freshness date that reads "Best if used by Aug 21 08" through "Best if used by April 15 09." The good news is that, according to them, there have been no ill affects on pets as a result of the food reported. But as a realist, I can't help but think "at least not yet."

In a letter to Costco members, dated April 26, 2007, Stephen J. Mills of American Nutrition Inc. writes "We are voluntarily recalling [Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food] due to potential contamination with melamine, an industrial chemical used to make plastics and fertilizers that may be harmful to animals if consumed. There have not been any out of the ordinary pet illnesses reported with this dog food." Although Costco has recalled the entire two-flavor Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food pack, it is the Lamb and Rice flavor that Costco is advising customers to immediately stop using.

It's unfortunate that this recall is coming so late in the game. Although Costco does have a notice about the recalled Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food on their website, it doesn't seem to be in an obvious place. I had to search "recall" to find it. In fact, although the recall happened more than a week ago on April 26, the only notice I received to stop feeding my two beagles Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food came today on May 5, nine days since the food was recalled.

This recall is the latest in a number of dog and cat food recalls that have affected pet owners over the past month or so. The chemical melamine has been blamed for the deaths of countless pets who ingested the toxic chemical from canned dog food. Melamine is also used to make melamine resin dinnerware, a durable plastic.

If you have purchased Kirkland Signature Premium Dog Food that has been recalled, you will likely receive a letter from Costco advising you of the purchase. Costco is advising customers to return any unused dog food to Costco for a full refund.

If you have questions, you can call (800) 257-4530 for more information.

To see a list of other recalled pet foods, check out the American Veterinary Medical Association's list here.