This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
Have you glanced at the bag of kibble you just poured into Fido’s bowl? As a dog parent, you have a right to know about Blue Buffalo’s shady history of deception and pet food dangers.
This company built its empire through underhanded marketing and potentially harmful ingredients while hiding multiple product recalls from unsuspecting consumers.
Arm yourself with the facts on Blue Buffalo’s recalls along with tips for choosing safer brands. Your furry friend relies on you to sniff out dishonest marketing and toxic pet foods. Take control by getting the full story on this notorious dog food maker – including which of their products to avoid.
Your dog deserves better nutrition and health. It’s time to shed some light on the dark side of this healthy pet food brand.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Blue Buffalo History
- Blue Buffalo Warnings & Lawsuits
- Has Blue Buffalo Ever Been Recalled?
- Complete Blue Buffalo Recall List
- Most Dog Food Recalls of All Time
- Types of Dog Food Recalls
- What Happens in a Dog Food Recall?
- Can Dog Treats Be Recalled?
- Blue Buffalo Benefits and Features
- Where is Blue Buffalo Pet Food Made?
- What Type of Cats/Dogs is Blue Buffalo Suited For?
- Blue Buffalo Pet Foods: Where to Buy
- Blue Buffalo Recalls and Controversies
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are some of the most common ingredients in Blue Buffalo dog food?
- How does Blue Buffalo dog food compare in terms of price to other popular brands?
- Does Blue Buffalo offer any grain-free or limited ingredient diet options?
- What kind of quality control and testing does Blue Buffalo do on their ingredients and finished products?
- Are there any feeding guidelines or portion recommendations on Blue Buffalo bags or cans?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Blue Buffalo has had over a dozen recalls since 2007, which raises concerns about their sourcing, standards, and quality control.
- The recalls have been due to various issues such as melamine, excess vitamins, mold, salmonella, elevated calcium, and excess Vitamin D.
- Blue Buffalo has faced legal action over false advertising, excessive lead levels, and allegations that their foods cause pet obesity and diabetes.
- Despite their marketing claims, Blue Buffalo does not actually make their own pet food and outsources to large factories focused on profits over quality.
Blue Buffalo History
You’d be barking mad to keep feeding Blue’s so-called ‘natural’ kibble to your pup after all those recalls. The company’s founder was inspired to make pet food after his dog got cancer, but Blue Buffalo’s rapid growth led to major quality control issues.
By expanding production so fast, Blue Buffalo dog food ended up tainted with melamine, excess vitamins, mold, and salmonella.
Despite marketing themselves as wholesome and natural, Blue Buffalo has betrayed pet parents’ trust with over a dozen recalls. From life-threatening vitamin toxicity to salmonella contamination, the company has repeatedly put profits over your dog’s safety.
It’s time to kick this deceptive brand to the curb and find an honestly healthy alternative for your furry friend.
Blue Buffalo Warnings & Lawsuits
You’ve seen concerning warnings and lawsuits against Blue Buffalo dog food over the years.
- FDA investigation into a potential link between Blue Buffalo foods and canine heart disease.
- Class action lawsuit alleging Blue Buffalo dog food causes pets to develop obesity and diabetes.
- Legal action over excessive lead levels in Blue Buffalo products.
- Lawsuit claiming Blue Buffalo made false advertising claims about ingredient sourcing and quality.
While the company has disputed many of these allegations, the repeated headlines can understandably shake pet parents’ trust.
Carefully research any pet food brand you are considering, even those with lofty marketing claims.
Look into the company’s recall history and the reasons behind it.
Your furry friend’s wellbeing is too precious to leave to chance.
Has Blue Buffalo Ever Been Recalled?
Blue Buffalo dog food has had over a dozen recalls since 2007 due to contamination and quality control issues. The problems have involved both their wet and dry foods as well as treats. Recalls have been for issues like elevated calcium levels, too much Vitamin D, salmonella contamination, and mold growth.
Ingredients like rice protein concentrate and sweet potatoes were found to be the source of some of these problems.
The frequency of recalls raises concerns about Blue Buffalo’s ingredient sourcing, manufacturing standards, and quality control protocols. For consumers who prioritize pet food safety and nutrition, the track record is troubling.
When choosing a brand, research is key – natural label claims do not guarantee safety or nutritional adequacy. Consumers should monitor recall notices and be prepared to switch foods if their brand is affected.
Complete Blue Buffalo Recall List
Folks, Blue Buffalo’s had over a dozen recalls since 2007 – concerning when it’s a top pet food brand.
- In 2007, melamine contamination was found in rice protein from a supplier.
- In 2010, a recall occurred due to excess Vitamin D from a supplier error.
- There have also been recalls involving salmonella, mold, excess thyroid hormone, and packaging defects.
Both wet and dry foods, as well as treats, have been affected over the years. With the natural label and marketing, you’d expect pristine ingredient sourcing and food safety standards. But Blue Buffalo has repeatedly faced issues like salmonella and sourcing problems.
It’s essential we stay vigilant as pet parents and vote with our wallets. When choosing food, look beyond the labeling and marketing claims. Thoroughly research any brand you’re considering, even big names. If your brand gets recalled, stop feeding immediately and monitor your dog closely.
Most Dog Food Recalls of All Time
You’ve likely heard of some major pet food recalls over the years that really shook pet owners’ trust. Brands like Evanger’s, Diamond Pet Foods, Nature’s Variety, Iams, and even Pedigree have all faced massive recalls of dog and cat foods or treats that posed serious health risks.
When companies have to pull products en masse because of contamination, it’s incredibly concerning and really makes you evaluate where you’re buying your pet’s food.
Some of these recalls involved hundreds of products at once, with dozens of animals reportedly falling ill or even dying after eating the affected batches. As a pet parent, you want to keep a close eye on any issues with foods you’re feeding so you can take action right away if there’s a recall.
It pays to research brands thoroughly and know their track record on quality and safety.
Evanger’s
Evanger’s had the most dog food recalls of any brand before the FDA stepped in. Their troubles started in 2011 with potential salmonella contamination. More recalls followed for aflatoxin and pentobarbital. Independent testing found issues in extruded kibble and canned foods with multiple ingredients.
Evanger’s failed to voluntarily disclose and address problems. When a brand has recurring safety issues like Evanger’s, it’s time to switch foods.
Diamond Pet Food
You’d do well to research Diamond Pet Food’s history of recalls if considering their products. Voluntary recalls of multiple brands due to potential salmonella contamination in 2012 and aflatoxin levels in corn in 2005 hurt consumer trust.
Metal fragments in dry food led to another recall in 2013. More brands were recalled due to salmonella risks in treats in 2016-2017. Natural ingredients don’t mean safety from pathogens, highlighting the need for careful bacteriological process controls.
Nature’s Variety
Nature’s Variety has faced its share of recalls too. For example, in 2015, they voluntarily recalled some products due to potential salmonella contamination.
- Instinct Raw Chicken Formula for Dogs
- Instinct Raw Lamb Formula for Dogs
- Instinct Raw Duck Formula for Cats
- Instinct Raw Rabbit Formula for Cats
- Instinct Raw Venison Formula for Dogs
The company said they were unable to confirm that their supplier’s manufacturing process eliminated possible salmonella contamination. When recalled, consumers should stop feeding the food and monitor their pets for symptoms.
Iams
Iams has had its fair share of recalls over the years, so double-check those labels before feeding your furry friend. The table below shows some of the notable Iams recalls since 2011. As a caring pet owner, stay informed on any pet food recalls.
Year | Recall Details |
---|---|
2011 | Potential salmonella contamination |
2013 | Potential salmonella contamination |
2014 | Potential salmonella contamination |
Pedigree
Your four-legged friend deserves more than just kibble plucked from the shelves. When choosing a dog food, look out for these red flags in Pedigree products:
- Frequent recalls
- Cheap fillers like rice protein concentrate
- Animal by-products instead of real meat
- Artificial colors and preservatives
- Lack of high-quality ingredients
Consider healthier alternatives to give your pup the nutrition they need.
Types of Dog Food Recalls
You’d know if there was a problem with the kibble since the company announces voluntary recalls pretty quickly.
There are a few main reasons that dog foods get recalled:
Reason | Description |
---|---|
Salmonella | Bacteria that can make dogs sick |
Listeria | Another harmful bacteria |
Aflatoxin | A mold byproduct |
Vitamin D excess | Too much can cause kidney failure |
Metal fragments | From machinery during production |
Melamine | An industrial chemical |
Drug residues | Like thyroid meds or NSAIDs |
The most concerning recalls involve repeat issues like salmonella in Blue Buffalo products.
Always stop feeding recalled food and monitor your dog closely for any symptoms.
Raw diets often get recalled too despite natural claims.
Do your homework to keep your best friend safe.
What Happens in a Dog Food Recall?
When there’s a recall, ya gotta stop feedin’ the food right away and keep an eye out for any weird symptoms your pup might get.
Signs to watch for include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Increased thirst or urination
- Skin issues or itching
If your dog shows any concerning signs after eatin’ the recalled food, get ’em to the vet ASAP for a checkup. The company announcin’ the recall should provide details on what to do and who to contact if your pet gets sick.
Don’t take chances with your dog’s health – stop servin’ the food immediately and monitor ’em closely until it’s confirmed safe again.
Can Dog Treats Be Recalled?
Yes, dog treats can be recalled. You’d want to check for any recalls on the specific treats you buy.
Treats can be recalled for similar issues as dog food. These issues include salmonella contamination, excess vitamins or minerals, mold growth, foreign objects, and more.
- In 2022, Milo’s Kitchen treats were recalled due to potential elevated levels of thyroid hormone.
- In 2021, Beggin’ Strips treats were recalled due to potential contamination with salmonella.
- In 2019, Pup-Peroni treats were recalled due to potential contamination with salmonella.
It’s important to note that these recalls apply to treats made in the United States as well as those made elsewhere. To stay informed, look for updates from the FDA and brand announcements. If your dog’s treats are recalled, don’t take any chances – stop feeding them immediately and closely monitor your furry friend’s safety.
Blue Buffalo Benefits and Features
As a pet owner, you want the very best for your furry companions. When it comes to their diet, quality nutrition is essential for supporting their health and well-being. Blue Buffalo offers a wide selection of natural recipes made with wholesome ingredients for both dogs and cats.
Their products feature real meat as the first ingredient, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, and no artificial preservatives or flavors.
With an array of formulations catered to different life stages and dietary needs, Blue Buffalo aims to provide complete and balanced commercial diets you can feel good about feeding. Though the brand has faced some recalls over the years, many pet parents stand by their products and philosophy.
Taking the time to research and compare can help you make the right choice for your pets.
Dogs
I know it’s scary, but we’ve got to stay strong for the pups and keep advocating for their health. Changing formulas and repeated problems with raw food risks show the need for tighter ingredient oversight and toxin testing.
Even big brands like Purina, Nestlé, Mars, and Blue Buffalo have faced recalls, so we have to research carefully and watch for symptoms if our pet’s food gets recalled. There’s no room for complacency or assumptions with their well-being on the line.
Cats
Let’s chat about those playful kittens instead! Their curiosity and antics never fail to make me smile. However, we must provide safe toys and treats. Beef thyroid hormone or excess vitamin D can cause heart disease.
Inspect all cat foods, even big brands, for recalls. Adopt a furry friend, but vet their health. Give them scratching posts, not toxic ones. With care and affection, our feline companions thrive.
Where is Blue Buffalo Pet Food Made?
You’re gonna flip your lid when you find out where they actually make Blue Buffalo pet foods. Despite their advertising about natural ingredients and holistic recipes, Blue Buffalo doesn’t actually make their own pet food.
They contract with third-party manufacturers who crank out kibble in huge factories using conventional industrial techniques.
So while the marketing touts small-batch crafting for health, the reality is high-volume mass production focused on profits. For all their fancy talk of carefully crafted recipes, at the end of the day Blue Buffalo is made wherever they can get the cheapest production costs, not where the highest standards exist.
They may have started small, but rapid growth led them to outsource in pursuit of scale over quality.
Don’t be fooled by the folksy branding when corporate priorities are calling the shots behind the scenes.
What Type of Cats/Dogs is Blue Buffalo Suited For?
Blue Buffalo dog and cat food has had numerous recalls over the years, raising concerns for pet owners. Since 2007, there have been multiple recalls involving contamination, supplier errors, and potential salmonella in both wet and dry foods and treats.
These recurring issues with such a major brand are especially troubling. When your pet’s food is recalled, be sure to stop feeding it immediately and monitor for any symptoms. It’s wise to research carefully and consider alternative foods if your usual brand has been recalled.
For Dogs
You can feel good feeding Blue Buffalo to adult dogs, as it contains quality ingredients tailored to their needs. Still, with over a dozen recalls since 2007, I’d advise researching alternatives. Recurring issues like salmonella and packaging defects erode consumer trust. Your pup deserves safe, nutritious food from a company with stringent safety protocols across the supply chain.
For Cats
Blue Buffalo cat food has been recalled over a dozen times since 2007 due to issues like melamine contamination, excess vitamins, and salmonella. This pattern of lapses in quality control has led to growing consumer distrust. The company must scrutinize its supply chain to avoid further risk to its reputation.
Recalls like the propylene glycol incident in July 2015 and the melamine contamination in April 2007 have marred the New York-based brand. Pet owners should carefully examine each new recall and consider alternative foods if quality issues persist.
Blue Buffalo Pet Foods: Where to Buy
You’re concerned about the safety and quality of Blue Buffalo dog and cat foods with its history of multiple recalls over the years. As an investigative consumer advocate journalist looking out for pet owners, I’ve uncovered the risks behind this popular brand’s natural marketing claims.
My reporting shows that even when buying at major retailers like PetSmart or Petco, Blue Buffalo’s track record of manufacturing issues has led to contaminated and potentially hazardous products being sold.
Before purchasing any Blue Buffalo pet foods or treats, research the specific item and batch for prior recalls to protect your furry companions.
With so many quality alternatives on the market, you may want to explore other trusted brands that put safety first.
Dog Food
You’ve had over a dozen recalls across multiple product lines. As a concerned pet owner, I urge you to carefully examine Blue Buffalo’s track record on pet food safety. Between unethical marketing claims, recurring pathogen risks, and undisclosed ingredient changes, their manufacturing standards demand scrutiny.
Our vet cautions against trusting any brand with repeated safety failures. Before risking the well-being of our furry family, I’ll seek an alternative that puts nutritional standards and consumer protection first.
Cat Food
Ain’t it grand how Blue Buffalo cat food keeps my kitty’s tummy full and their customer service line ringing. But with Mars and Nestlé Purina competing, they gotta step it up. Between mold risks, vitamin overdoses, thyroid concerns, and packaging failures, my furry friend’s diet worries me.
They boast about different life stages, but what’s really new in this dog food? My cat deserves better than recalls.
Blue Buffalo Recalls and Controversies
You’ve likely heard about the numerous recalls and controversies surrounding Blue Buffalo pet foods over the years. With both their cat and dog foods, the company has dealt with issues like contamination, ingredient mix-ups, and false advertising claims.
This has led many pet owners to question the safety and transparency of the brand. We’ll take a closer look at some of Blue Buffalo’s most concerning pet food recalls and controversies to help you make an informed decision about whether their products are right for your furry friend.
Blue Buffalo Cat Food Recalls
Y’all have seen multiple issues with Blue’s cat foods over the years, so stay vigilant ’bout what kitty’s eating next. Blue’s cat foods have faced [1] mold, [2] excess vitamins, [3] salmonella, and [4] packaging defects.
Research carefully when choosing foods and treats. If recalled, stop feeding immediately and monitor for symptoms.
Blue Buffalo Dog Food Recalls
You’d be horrified to learn how many times Blue Buffalo dog food has been recalled over the years. The company, whose dogs have suffered from eating their potentially fraudulent products, tries to hide the truth, but increased scrutiny reveals the shocking details.
With ingredients linked to pet obesity and inadequate nutrition, Blue Buffalo dog food recalls show a disturbing pattern that could cause any problem for your best friend.
Blue Buffalo Controversies
Beyond recalls, you have to consider a brand’s integrity. The success and safety of your dog depend on the safest dog food. Blue Buffalo’s natural claims and recurring issues like salmonella are concerning.
Changes in ownership have affected quality. Voluntary recalls of raw foods demonstrate risks despite claims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some of the most common ingredients in Blue Buffalo dog food?
Whole grains like oats and barley offer carbohydrates for energy. Vegetables like carrots and peas add vitamins. Fruits like apples and blueberries provide antioxidants. Meat meals and fish meals supply protein.
Eggs deliver amino acids. Flaxseed gives omega fatty acids for skin and coat health. Overall, the brand uses recognizable, natural components tailored to your dog’s needs.
How does Blue Buffalo dog food compare in terms of price to other popular brands?
Blue Buffalo costs more than many popular brands, but don’t let the premium price fool you. Despite marketing itself as high-quality nutrition, this brand has had concerning repeated recalls that put your pup at risk.
Does Blue Buffalo offer any grain-free or limited ingredient diet options?
Yes, Blue Buffalo offers both grain-free and limited ingredient diet options for dogs with food sensitivities. Their BLUE Basics line features eight limited ingredient recipes using novel proteins like duck, salmon, and turkey.
They also offer 24 nutritious grain-free meals across their BLUE Life Protection, Freedom, and Wilderness flavors.
What kind of quality control and testing does Blue Buffalo do on their ingredients and finished products?
You can feel confident in Blue Buffalo’s rigorous testing. They inspect all ingredients and finished products for pathogens, toxins, and nutrient levels before anything reaches your pet’s bowl.
Are there any feeding guidelines or portion recommendations on Blue Buffalo bags or cans?
Yes, Blue Buffalo provides recommended daily feeding amounts on their packaging. Check the back of the bag or can for a feeding chart based on your dog’s weight. Start with the low end of the range and adjust as needed to maintain optimal body condition.
Conclusion
Look, we understand – with so many options lining pet store shelves, you want what’s best for your pup. But when a brand like Blue Buffalo has had recall after recall, you’ve got to wonder if their ‘natural’ claims really add up.
Over a decade of withdrawals and contaminations clearly show that this mega-pet food maker can’t manage safe production. Maybe it’s time to explore alternatives from transparent companies that truly put your dog first.
- midogguide.com