January 23, 2026 – The FDA is urging pet owners to stop using Raaw Energy dog food as eight lots tested positive for various bacterial contaminants. Pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and E. coli were identified, presenting a dual health risk to domestic animals and humans. This is not a recall.
Warning Information
| Company: | Gold Star Distribution |
| Warning Date: | January 23, 2026 |
| Risk: | Salmonella, Listeria, E Coli, and other harmful pathogens |
| FDA: | Recall Alert Information |
Affected Products
| Product Name | Size | Date Code(s) | Bacteria Detected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Medley | 2 lb | 7.17.25 | Listeria, Salmonella, Campylobacter |
| Chicken Medley | 5 lb | 11.22.25 | Listeria |
| Chicken Medley | 5 lb | 12.12.25 | Listeria, Salmonella |
| Salmon | 5 lb | 12.5.25, 12.12.25 | Listeria |
| Beef Chicken Medley | 5 lb | 12.16.25 | Listeria |
| Beef Turkey Medley | 5 lb | 12.18.25 | Listeria |
| Beef Chicken Tripe Medley | 5 lb | 12.23.25 | Listeria, E. coli O157 |
Handling Dangers & Precautions
There is a risk to humans from handling contaminated foods, especially if they have not washed their hands after coming into contact with the products or surfaces that have been exposed to these pet foods.
If you currently have this product, take immediate action:
- Do not feed it to your pets or any animals.
- Do not sell or donate the recalled bags.
- Return the food to where you bought it, or dispose of it safely so that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access it.
- After handling the food or its containers, wash and sanitize all pet food bowls, cups, storage bins, and your hands.
Bacterial Contamination & Health Risks
The bacteria found in these products (Listeria, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli) pose significant threats. While some dogs show no symptoms, they can still “shed” these bacteria in their stool and saliva, spreading the infection to humans and other pets.
Symptoms in Dogs
Illness is most severe in puppies, senior dogs, and those with compromised immune systems.
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Common Signs: Fever, lethargy, vomiting, and acute diarrhea (sometimes bloody). You may also notice a decreased appetite or swollen lymph nodes.
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Severe Signs (Contact a Vet Immediately): Persistent high fever, collapse or shock, signs of sepsis (infection in the bloodstream), or rapid weight loss.
Risks to Humans
These pathogens are zoonotic, meaning they spread easily from animals to people. Humans can become infected by handling the contaminated raw food, touching surfaces the food has touched, or coming into contact with a pet’s waste.
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Listeria Warning: Listeria is especially dangerous for pregnant individuals (can cause miscarriage or stillbirth), the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, and balance issues.
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General Symptoms: Diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. If symptoms last more than three days or are accompanied by a high fever, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Action Steps
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Dispose Safely: Since the manufacturer has not yet initiated a formal recall, do not return the food to the store. Instead, seal it in a plastic bag and throw it in a secure outdoor trash can so wildlife cannot reach it.
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Sanitize: Thoroughly clean and disinfect any bowls, utensils, countertops, or freezers that came into contact with the food.
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Monitor: Keep a close eye on all household members (human and furry) for at least two weeks after the last exposure.