Unleashing the Truth: Is Evanger’s Dog Food Safe Now?

When it comes to our four-legged companions, we want nothing but the best for their health and happiness. As pet owners, we are always on the lookout for trustworthy and safe food options for our furry friends. However, with the recent controversy surrounding Evanger’s dog food, many of us have been left wondering: is it safe to feed our dogs Evanger’s food now? In this article, we will delve into the history of Evanger’s and explore whether or not their dog food is now considered safe for our beloved pets. So let’s dig in and find out the truth about Evanger’s dog food safety.

Evanger’s Dog Food has been a well-known brand in the pet food industry for over 80 years, but it has also faced its fair share of controversy. In 2017, concerns were raised after several dogs became ill and one unfortunately passed away after consuming Evanger’s canned dog food. This led to a nationwide recall of several products from the brand and a lot of questions about whether or not Evanger’s dog food is safe now. In this article, we will delve into all the information available to help you make an informed decision on whether or not to trust this brand with your beloved canine companion’s nutrition.

The history of Evanger’s Dog Food

Evanger’s Dog Food was founded in 1935 by Fred Evanger in Wheeling, Illinois. The company started small but eventually expanded into becoming one of the first companies to produce certified organic pet foods. They were also pioneers in creating grain-free and Limited Ingredient Diets (LIDs) for pets with allergies or sensitivities. Their products were made with high-quality ingredients and produced in their own USDA-inspected plant.

However, things took a turn for the worse in 2017 when reports emerged about contaminated meat used in Evanger’s canned dog food. It was discovered that some of their products contained pentobarbital, a drug commonly used for euthanizing animals. This led to multiple recalls and widespread concern about the safety of their products.

The investigation

After extensive investigations by the FDA and independent laboratories, it was confirmed that one supplier had provided contaminated meat to Evanger’s manufacturing plant. The source was traced back to bovine meat sourced from a facility that also processed horses for slaughter. This is a violation of FDA regulations as horse meat is not approved for use in pet food.

It is important to note that only certain batches of Evanger’s canned dog food were affected by this contamination, and none of their dry food products were implicated. The company also cut ties with the supplier and implemented stricter quality control measures to prevent any similar incidents in the future.

The changes made by Evanger’s

After the recall, Evanger’s made several changes to their manufacturing processes. They started testing every batch of raw ingredients for contamination before using them in their products. They also introduced new protocols for sourcing and handling raw materials to ensure safety and quality.

Furthermore, they installed new equipment in their plant that can detect even trace amounts of pentobarbital, providing an added layer of assurance for pet owners. They have also implemented regular audits by third-party organizations to maintain high standards of safety and quality control.

The current state of Evanger’s Dog Food

As a result of these changes, Evanger’s has not had any further recalls or reports of contamination since 2017. This suggests that their efforts have been successful in making their products safer for pets. The company has also been transparent about their recall process and has promptly announced recalls when necessary.

In addition, many customers have still been loyal to the brand due to its long-standing history of producing high-quality pet food. They appreciate the efforts made by the company to rectify the situation and continue trusting their brand.

Should you trust Evanger’s Dog Food now?

Based on all the information available, it seems that Evanger’s Dog Food is safe now. The company has taken significant steps to address the issues that led to a nationwide recall and continues to maintain high standards of safety and quality control. It is important to note that no pet food brand is completely immune from recalls or incidents, but what truly matters is how they respond and make necessary changes.

If you have any remaining concerns about the safety of Evanger’s Dog Food, you can always contact their customer service for more information. It is also recommended to always monitor your pet’s health and seek veterinary attention if you notice any adverse reactions after consuming any pet food.

Overall, Evanger’s Dog Food seems to have made great strides in improving the safety and quality of their products since the recall in 2017. They have taken necessary measures to prevent contamination and have been transparent about their processes. As with any pet food brand, it is important to do your own research and choose what you think is best for your pet’s health. But based on the available information, Evanger’s Dog Food appears to be safe for consumption now.

Background on Evanger’s Dog Food

Evanger’s Dog Food is a popular brand of dog food that has been on the market for over 80 years. Founded in 1935, the company boasts about its high-quality ingredients and commitment to providing healthy and nutritious food for dogs. They offer a variety of wet and dry dog food options, including grain-free and limited ingredient recipes.

In 2013, Evanger’s Dog Food made headlines when they issued a voluntary recall of their Hunkey Dory canned dog food after traces of pentobarbital, a euthanasia drug, were found in some cans. This raised concerns over the safety and quality control measures of their manufacturing process.

Since then, Evanger’s has faced multiple lawsuits and controversies related to their product safety. In addition to being sued by pet owners whose dogs fell ill from consuming their products, the company has also faced scrutiny from the FDA for violating federal regulations.

The Latest Controversy: Is Evanger’s Dog Food Safe Now?

In January 2020, allegations surfaced that claim Evanger’s is still using ingredients sourced from a supplier linked to the previous incidents of pentobarbital contamination. This raised concerns among pet owners about whether the brand has addressed the issue and if their products are truly safe now.

According to an investigation by The Truth About Pet Food, records show that one of Evanger’s ingredient suppliers is still obtaining meat scraps from another company that previously supplied them with meat contaminated with pentobarbital. This has caused many pet owners to question if there are still potential risks associated with feeding their dogs Evanger’s Dog Food.

In response to these allegations, Evanger’s released a statement denying any wrongdoing or use of contaminated materials in their products. They claim to have changed their ingredients and sourcing process since the 2013 recall and assure pet owners that their products are safe for consumption.

Evaluating the Safety of Evanger’s Dog Food

With these new allegations, it’s natural for pet owners to question the safety of Evanger’s Dog Food. When it comes to food recalls, transparency and honesty are crucial. Here’s what we currently know about the safety of Evanger’s Dog Food:

  • Transparency: Evanger’s has faced criticism for lack of transparency in the past, including not fully disclosing what type of meat they use in their products. However, since the 2013 recall and subsequent lawsuits, they have been more transparent in their ingredient sourcing process.
  • Rigorous Quality Control: In response to the previous recalls, Evanger’s has implemented more rigorous quality control measures. This includes testing ingredients before they enter their manufacturing facility and conducting regular tests on finished products.
  • Third-Party Certification: Evanger’s also claims to have third-party certifications from prestigious organizations like AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) and the FDA, ensuring that their products meet safety standards.

Despite these measures taken by Evanger’s, concerns remain among pet owners about whether there are still potential risks associated with feeding their dogs this brand of dog food. Some argue that there is no way to be 100% sure that all ingredients used are free from contamination.

What Can Pet Owners Do?

If you currently feed your dog Evanger’s Dog Food or are considering trying it out, here are some steps you can take to ensure your dog’s safety:

  • Read Labels Carefully: Make sure to read the ingredient list on the label carefully and know exactly what type of meat is used in your dog’s food. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the company directly.
  • Monitor Your Dog’s Health: Keep a close eye on your dog’s health and behavior when transitioning them to new food or incorporating Evanger’s into their current diet. If you notice any changes or symptoms of illness, consult a veterinarian immediately.
  • Consider Alternatives: If you’re still uncertain about the safety of Evanger’s Dog Food, consider switching to another brand that has not faced similar controversies. There are plenty of high-quality dog food options out there that prioritize safety and transparency.

The question remains: is Evanger’s Dog Food safe now? While it’s reassuring that the company has taken steps to address previous concerns and claims to have third-party certifications, ultimately the decision lies with pet owners. With new allegations surfacing, it’s important for pet owners to stay informed and make informed decisions regarding their dog’s diet and well-being.

As always, it’s crucial

1) Is Evanger’s dog food now safe for my pet to consume?
Yes, Evanger’s dog food is now safe for your pet. The company has implemented several new safety measures and has passed multiple independent lab tests to ensure the safety of their products.

2) What caused the safety concerns with Evanger’s dog food in the past?
In 2017, an ingredient supplier for Evanger’s accidentally provided contaminated meat, resulting in several reported cases of sick pets. This prompted a recall and raised concerns about the safety of their products.

3) Have any changes been made to improve the safety of Evanger’s dog food?
Yes, since the 2017 recall, Evanger’s has implemented stricter sourcing protocols and increased inspections of their ingredients. They have also partnered with a third-party laboratory to conduct regular tests on their products.

4) Are there any reported cases of pets getting sick from consuming Evanger’s dog food recently?
No, there have not been any reported cases of sickness related to Evanger’s dog food since the 2017 recall. The company’s added safety measures have successfully prevented any further incidents.

5) How can I ensure that my pet is eating safe and healthy food from Evanger’s?
You can check for the “Guaranteed Analysis” label on each bag or can of Evanger’s dog food, which ensures that each product meets the required nutritional standards. Additionally, you can also consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on high-quality pet food brands.

6) Is it safe to continue feeding my pet with Evanger’s dog food if he/she has a sensitive stomach or allergies?
If your pet has specific dietary needs or sensitivities, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian before making changes in their diet. However, Evanger’s offers a variety of specialized diets, such as grain-free and limited ingredient recipes, that may be suitable for pets with allergies or sensitive stomachs.

In conclusion, the safety of Evanger’s dog food has been a heavily debated topic in recent years. Through the investigation of numerous pet illnesses and product recalls, it is clear that Evanger’s dog food was not safe in the past due to contamination and mislabeling issues. However, after implementing stricter manufacturing processes and improving quality control measures, Evanger’s has taken steps towards ensuring the safety of their products.

Despite these efforts, there is no guarantee that Evanger’s dog food is completely safe. Pet owners must remain vigilant and attentive to any potential issues with the brand. It is important to thoroughly research and educate oneself on what ingredients are present in a pet’s food, regardless of the brand.

Additionally, it is crucial for pet owners to closely monitor their pets’ health and seek immediate medical attention if they notice any concerning symptoms. Transparency and communication between a company and its customers are also key factors in building trust and ensuring product safety.

Ultimately, pet owners should prioritize their beloved companions’ well-being by making informed decisions about their diet. While Evanger’s may have made strides towards improving their product safety, it is up to each individual consumer to evaluate the potential risks associated with feeding their pets this brand. By staying informed and maintaining a critical eye towards companies’ practices

Author Profile

Erick Benitez
Erick Benitez
In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.