WASHINGTON - A popular pet food has been recalled after some lots were found to have potentially fatal levels of Aflatoxin.

The recall says certain lots of Sportmix pet food manufactured by Midwestern Pet Foods, Inc. may contain fatal levels.

According to the recall, the FDA is aware of at least 28 deaths and eight illnesses in dogs that ate the recalled food.

Case counts and the scope of the recall may expand as the investigation continues.

The issue is due to Aflatoxin, a toxin produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on corn and other grains used in pet food. At high levels, aflatoxin can cause illness and death in pets.

Pets that are experiencing aflatoxin poisoning may have symptoms like sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice, and diarrhea.

Anyone with a pet showing signs of illness should contact their veterinarian and throw the food away.

Below is a list of the recalled lots:

The list of dry pet food products to be recalled by Midwestern Pet Food, Inc. on December 30, 2020 is:

  • Sportmix Energy Plus, 50 lb. bag
    • Exp 03/02/22/05/L2
    • Exp 03/02/22/05/L3
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L2
  • Sportmix Energy Plus, 44 lb. bag
    • Exp 03/02/22/05/L3
    • Sportmix Premium High Energy, 50 lb. bag
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L3
  • Sportmix Premium High Energy, 44 lb. bag
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L3
    • Sportmix Original Cat, 31 lb. bag 
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L3
  • Sportmix Original Cat, 15 lb. bag
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L2
    • Exp 03/03/22/05/L3