Mars Petcare US has issued a voluntary recall for two specific lots of Pedigree-branded wet dog food over concerns that the products may contain sharp pieces of metal and plastic. The contamination could pose serious health risks to dogs, including choking, internal lacerations, or gastrointestinal blockages.
The recall, announced on July 2, 2026, affects 13.2-ounce cans of Pedigree Can High Protein Chopped Chicken & Duck Flavor. The impacted lot codes are 613C3KKCFC and 613C1KKCFC. No other Pedigree or Mars Petcare products are involved in the recall.
According to the company, the affected lots failed internal quality control checks and were sent to a third-party vendor for destruction. However, Mars Petcare later discovered that the products had been fraudulently diverted and sold to consumers across the United States instead of being properly disposed of. The company is cooperating with authorities to investigate how the products entered the marketplace.
“The potential presence of sharp metal and plastic foreign material in the cans could pose a hazard to your dog,” Mars Petcare stated in its official announcement. Health risks for dogs ingesting such objects include choking, cuts in the mouth or digestive tract, and possible intestinal blockages.
As of the recall announcement, the company reported no confirmed cases of illness or injury related to the affected products. Pet owners who may have already fed the food to their dogs are advised to monitor for symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, or unusual lethargy, and to consult a veterinarian immediately if any issues arise.
Consumers who purchased the recalled dog food are urged not to feed it to their pets. They should contact Pedigree for a replacement or further instructions. The company emphasized its commitment to pet safety and is actively working to remove the affected products from circulation.
Background and Broader Implications
Pedigree, a well-known brand under Mars Petcare, is popular among dog owners worldwide for its affordable and widely available pet food products. The company maintains strict quality standards, but this incident highlights vulnerabilities in the supply chain, particularly when third-party vendors are involved.
Mars Petcare stressed that the recall is limited and proactive. “Mars is working with authorities to determine how these products entered the marketplace. We are committed to protecting pets and helping consumers identify and remove the affected products from use,” the company said.
This recall serves as a reminder for pet owners to regularly check product labels, lot codes, and expiration dates. Experts recommend keeping receipts or photos of packaging for quick reference in case of recalls. While no adverse events have been reported so far, veterinary professionals note that foreign objects in pet food can lead to emergency situations if not addressed promptly.
Pet food recalls, though relatively uncommon, underscore the importance of robust quality assurance in the industry. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) often oversee such actions to ensure consumer and animal safety.
What Pet Owners Should Do:
- Immediately check any Pedigree wet dog food in your possession against the recalled lot codes.
- Dispose of or return affected products safely.
- Reach out to Pedigree customer service for refunds or replacements.
- Stay informed through official channels and the FDA recall database for updates.
In conclusion, while this recall affects only a small portion of Pedigree’s product line, it highlights the need for vigilance among pet owners and accountability across the supply chain. Mars Petcare’s swift response aims to minimize any potential harm, reinforcing its dedication to the well-being of pets and the trust of consumers.