Is Darwin’s Raw Pet Food Safe? FDA Recall Alert

The FDA recently issued a recall for Darwin’s prepackaged frozen raw dog food. So, how serious is this? Should you be worried—or is this another case of the FDA being overly cautious?

If you’ve been following my work, you know I’m all about natural pet health and transparency. So, let’s take a closer look at what’s really going on with this recall and what it means for you and your dog.

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What Happened with Darwin’s Raw Pet Food?

The FDA issued a warning about certain lots of Darwin’s Natural Pet Products BioLogics dog food.
Specifically, two samples from their prepackaged frozen raw line tested positive—one for Listeria, and another for Salmonella and Listeria.

The affected lots of dog food are in 2-pound white and clear plastic packages with “BioLogics All-Natural & Grain-Free” in orange lettering. Each package is split into four separate half-pound units. The lot codes are printed on the front of the lower left corner of the 2-pound package. The affected varieties and lot codes are:

Darwin’s Natural Pet Products BioLogics All-Natural & Grain-Free Beef Recipe for Dogs

Lot 11895, MFG Date: Jul 29, 2025

Darwin’s Natural Pet Products BioLogics All-Natural & Grain-Free Beef Recipe for Dogs

Lot 11826, MFG Date: Jul 07, 2025

This recall focuses on the BioLogics line, which is mainly raw animal protein (in this case, beef) combined with vegetables—usually a healthy, nutrient-rich choice for dogs. It’s the kind of food my own dog Tula eats regularly.

The FDA advised Darwin’s to recall the affected product lots and confirmed that consumers were directly informed. However, the agency mentioned they didn’t receive full assurance that all retailers were properly notified.

The FDA’s Advice

If you happen to have one of the affected lots, don’t feed it to your dog. Dispose of it safely.

The FDA also stresses disinfection—and I mean everything. Food bowls, utensils, countertops, your pet’s bed, toys, even the fridge if the food was stored there. Basically, anything that might have come in contact with the food.

They’re not wrong to be cautious—Salmonella and Listeria are serious bacteria. Both can cause illness in pets and people, especially in young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.

You can find the specific product lot numbers listed in the description box of my video or on Darwin’s official recall notice.

Understanding Salmonella and Listeria Risks

Now, here’s where we separate fear from facts.

Listeria infections in dogs and cats are extremely rare. In over two decades of seeing animals, I’ve never personally diagnosed a single case. Yes, it’s possible, but uncommon.

When pets do show symptoms, they might experience vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or even mild neurological signs. However, most animals exposed to a few bacteria don’t develop illness at all. Their immune systems handle it just fine.

Salmonella, on the other hand, is more familiar. I’ve seen a few cases, usually in hunting animals that ate something already infected—like a sick bird or rodent. The symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, or bloody diarrhea. In most cases, it’s self-limiting—meaning the dog recovers naturally with hydration, rest, and supportive care.

Can Pets Pass These Bacteria to People?

Technically, yes—but it’s incredibly rare.

There are no confirmed reports of dogs or cats passing Listeria to humans. Most human cases come from contaminated produce, like unwashed lettuce or soft cheeses—not pet food.

Still, the FDA’s concern makes sense. These bacteria can cause severe illness in vulnerable individuals. So, good hygiene is essential. Wash hands, clean surfaces, and handle raw pet food just like you would raw chicken in your kitchen.

Should You Stop Feeding Raw Food?

Short answer: No.

If you’re feeding a reputable raw or lightly cooked diet—and practicing good hygiene—there’s no need to panic or change your pet’s food because of this recall.

Do I want my dog eating contaminated food? Of course not. But should we abandon fresh, nutrient-dense food altogether? Absolutely not.

If you want to avoid all bacteria, the only way is to feed heavily processed, heat-treated kibble. But then you’re introducing another problem—high carbs, less natural nutrients, and increased inflammation risks.

So yes, take recalls seriously, but use common sense. Handle raw food carefully, disinfect properly, and you’ll be fine.

My Honest Opinion on Darwin’s

I actually like Darwin’s as a company. They’ve made some great foods over the years—quality ingredients, balanced formulations, and a commitment to better pet nutrition.

This recall doesn’t erase that. It’s a reminder that no food system—human or pet—is 100% free from risk.

So, if you feed Darwin’s, my advice is:
1. Check your product lot numbers
2. Follow proper hygiene practices
3. Keep feeding high-quality, natural food

Your dog will thank you for it.

Final Thoughts

Yes, there’s a recall—and yes, you should take it seriously. But don’t let fear steer you away from healthy, natural options for your pets.

Raw and lightly cooked foods, when handled correctly, remain some of the most nutritious choices you can make.

And for those asking—Tula’s still happily eating her Darwin’s meals, and she’s thriving.

If you’d like to learn more about pet nutrition, recalls, and safe feeding practices, check out my YouTube channel or Veterinary Secrets blog for updates, natural remedies, and my free book on how to Heal Your Pet at Home.

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Good Bacteria, Great Health: Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Probiotic Formula

Meet Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Probiotic Formula for Dogs and Cats—a complete, science-based solution to support your pet’s gut, immune, and overall health. Formulated with a potent blend of beneficial bacteria and digestive enzymes, this probiotic helps restore balance to your pet’s digestive system, easing issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and bad breath. It promotes better nutrient absorption, strengthens natural immunity, and supports oral and skin health from the inside out. With every scoop, you’re giving your pet the foundation for a healthier, happier, and more vibrant life—naturally formulated and pet-parent approved by Dr. Andrew Jones himself.