Have Pork Chomps Been Recalled? Examining the Facts Around This Popular Dog Treat

Pork Chomps are a beloved treat for dogs, offering a tasty long-lasting chew made from baked pork skin. However, with recent incidents involving contaminated dog treats, many owners have questions around the safety of Pork Chomps. Some may wonder – have Pork Chomps been recalled? Let’s take a closer look at the facts.

An Overview of Pork Chomps

First, a quick rundown on Pork Chomps. Scott Pet Products makes these rawhide-free dog chews by baking the pork skin to get rid of 70% of the fat. This makes a treat that is low in fat, easy to digest, and tastes great.

Pork Chomps come in various sizes and shapes to suit different breeds. They can help clean teeth and provide a satisfying chewing experience. Pork Chomps are a popular alternative to rawhide chews, which can present choking hazards.

Have There Been Any Recalls of Pork Chomps?

The short answer is yes, there has been one isolated recall of a specific batch of Pork Chomps.

In April 2021, a family reported three dogs became ill after eating Pork Chomps treats. Two were hospitalized but all recovered fully. The treats were traced back to a single lot number.

As a safety measure, Chewy took off the shelves all Pork Chomps products that had the same lot number. Scott Pet Products also began testing to identify any issues.

This single voluntary recall was limited only to one particular production lot. No widespread issues have been identified across all Pork Chomps products.

A Look at Other Recent Dog Treat Recalls

While Pork Chomps has only had one recall, other dog treat brands have been having bigger problems with contamination lately:

• July 2022 – Salmonella detected in multiple varieties of Beg & Barker chicken strip treats. Products recalled nationwide.

• May 2022 – Undeclared allergens found in Hempstead Foodservice brand heat-treated pork chops. Limited distribution in NY.

• June 2022 – Salmonella linked to 3 cases from “Dog Gone Dog Treats” dehydrated treats sold in MA. Voluntarily recalled.

These issues illustrate why owners should be vigilant about treat safety and check for any recalls of products they purchase. Manufacturing processes can sometimes lead to contamination.

Has the FDA Issued Any Warnings on Pork Chomps?

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration regulates pet food safety and has issued some limited warnings regarding Pork Chomps in past years:

• 2012 – Caution about trace levels of unapproved antibiotics in Pork Chomps made in China. Not deemed unsafe.

• 2015 – Some “rawhide free” labeled product found to actually contain rawhide. Voluntary recall initiated.

However, the FDA has not issued any sweeping recall or general safety warning regarding Pork Chomps. Isolated concerns have been quickly addressed by the manufacturer.

How Pork Chomps Responded to Safety Concerns

Scott Pet Products, maker of Pork Chomps, has emphasized safety as their top priority when any potential issue arises.

In the 2021 recall, they swiftly investigated the source of contamination and enacted a limited recall of the affected products. Enhanced quality control measures were implemented as well.

The company has been transparent in communicating recall details and keeping consumers informed. They also provide safe treat information to help owners make informed choices for their pets.

Ensuring Your Dog’s Treat Safety

We all want safe treats for our furry friends. Here are some tips for pet parents:

• Carefully read all labels and ingredients before purchase

• Research brands and stay updated on any recall news

• Monitor your dog closely when giving new treats

• Wash hands before and after handling treats

• Store treats properly in a sealed container

• Choose appropriate sizes and supervise chewing

• Ask your vet about the best treat options for your dog

While isolated recalls have occurred, Pork Chomps remains committed to safety. But staying vigilant on your end helps ensure your dog receives only the best quality treats. Put their health first.

Alternatives to Consider Beyond Pork Chomps

For those looking to switch up treats, there are many alternative chews to consider beyond Pork Chomps:

• Bully sticks – Single-ingredient chews made from bull pizzle

• Yak chews or Himalayan chews – Long-lasting hard cheese options

• Dental chew sticks – Often made with veggies like parsley and mint

• Sweet potato or yam chews – Provide fiber and minerals

• Bones from grass-fed cattle -watch for splintering risks

• Frozen carrots or apples – Provides hydration and cleans teeth

There are many factors from ingredients to texture that make certain chews better suited for different dogs. Work with your veterinarian to pick the best options.

The Bottom Line on Pork Chomp Recalls

While there was an isolated recall of one Pork Chomps variety in 2021, there have been no widespread recalls impacting all Pork Chomps products. The company addressed quality concerns quickly.

However, it is always smart for pet owners to stay vigilant about treat recalls and read labels to ensure they pick only the safest options for their beloved dogs. With a few precautions, you can continue to feel confident giving your pup these popular baked pork skin treats.