The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public advisory warning pet owners not to feed eight identified lots of Raaw Energy dog food after testing confirmed contamination with multiple pathogenic bacteria, including Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, Campylobacter jejuni, and in one case E. coli O157.
What Prompted the Advisory
FDA testing was initiated following a consumer complaint involving a dog illness reported to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture. State investigators in Connecticut and New Jersey collected eight unopened product samples, all of which tested positive for one or more harmful pathogens.
Based on these findings, FDA recommended an immediate recall. As of the advisory date, Raaw Energy has not initiated an adequate recall of the affected products.
Affected Products
The advisory applies to specific Raaw Energy frozen raw dog food products, sold primarily online and picked up in person, packaged in 2-lb or 5-lb clear plastic tubes.
Because the products lack lot codes, affected batches are identified by manufacturing date codes printed on package labels. Multiple flavors and dates of manufacture from July through December 2025 are implicated.
Public Health Risk
The bacteria identified in the contaminated products pose risks to both pets and humans:
- Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe illness, pregnancy loss, and death in vulnerable populations.
- Salmonella commonly causes diarrhea and fever and can lead to bloodstream infections.
- E. coli O157 may cause severe gastrointestinal illness and kidney failure (HUS).
- Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial diarrheal illness and can result in long-term complications.
Importantly, pets may shed these bacteria without appearing ill, exposing household members through feces, saliva, and environmental contact. FDA notes that freezing does not eliminate these pathogens, a critical consideration for raw pet food products.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who have purchased the dog food should stop feeding the affected products immediately, securely dispose of the food, and thoroughly clean and disinfect pet bowls, food prep surfaces, storage areas, and any surfaces the food or pet may have contacted.
Monitor pets and household members for symptoms and consult a veterinarian or healthcare provider if illness occurs
Regulatory Context
Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, animal foods (like human foods) must be produced under sanitary conditions and free from harmful contaminants. FDA continues to investigate and encourages consumers to report pet illnesses or product concerns through its Safety Reporting Portal.
Read the FDA announcement here.