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Bird food recalled due to Salmonella contamination: Dead birds found in N.C. initiates testing of bird food
March 12, 2009
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture has determined that the deaths of several birds in Durham a few weeks ago were caused by a contaminated birdfeed that can be traced to the peanut salmonella outbreak.
Kentucky-based Burkmann Feeds announced today that it is voluntarily recalling Wild Birds Unlimited Wildlife Blend bird food after tests conducted by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Food and Drug Protection Division revealed the presence of Salmonella bacteria.
Burkmann is recalling 20-pound packages of Wild Birds Unlimited Wildlife Blend bird food with the specific manufacturing date code of 81132200 2916 08124, sold exclusively at Wild Birds Unlimited Stores.
The department initiated an investigation following reports of salmonellosis in dead wild birds found in various locations throughout the state. NCDA&CS is working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to identify the source of contamination at the manufacturer.
"We are pleased that the testing has enabled us to remove contaminated feed from the market," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. "Food safety is a number one priority for this department, for both humans and animals."
The product being recalled is:
Wild Birds Unlimited Lot/Manufacturing Date Code:
Wildlife Blend (20 lb. packages) 81132200 2916 08124
Wild Birds Unlimited Inc. and Burkmann Feeds are cooperating to remove all affected product from Wild Birds Unlimited franchisees. NCDA&CS is advising consumers to discard the product, avoid touching unsealed product with bare hands and wash their hands thoroughly after touching unsealed product.
Further information:
· North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
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