Pedigree has recalled several brands of its dog food that were sold to consumers, even though they were flagged for destruction after failing quality-control tests.
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Mars Petcare US issued the voluntary recall on July 2 for 13.2-ounce cans of High Protein Chopped Chicken & Duck Flavor for dogs, according to a company announcement.
The company said that the food may contain sharp metal and plastic fragments that could cause choking or internal lacerations for dogs, according to a statement from Mars Petcare dated July 2.
"The recalled products did not meet Mars and PEDIGREE stringent safety and quality standards. As part of the robust quality control process every single PEDIGREE product undergoes, these two lots had been sent to a third-party vendor for destruction. Mars later discovered that the product appears to have been fraudulently diverted and sold into the marketplace in the United States."
The company added, "The recalled product may contain metal and plastic foreign material. The potential presence of sharp metal and plastic foreign material in the cans could pose a hazard to your dog. Health risks to dogs ingesting sharp foreign objects can range from choking to lacerations or blockages in the gastrointestinal tract."
Mars Petcare Says There Have Been No Reported Injuries
Mars advised pet owners to consult their veterinarian if their dogs were exposed to the contaminated product.
So far, the company said that no customers had reported injuries to their pets from eating the dog food.
Mars did not specify the exact amount of food recalled. Instead, they referred to it as two lots.
Mars is investigating how the food was distributed after being designated for destruction.
"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.
Pedigree is one of the most popular dog food brands in America. The brand offers dozens of varieties across wet food, dry food, and treats.
According to Statista, Mars Petcare grossed over $22 billion in 2024. Pedigree is sold in several grocery stores, including Walmart and Kroger, as well as PetSmart.
