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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a new online alert warning that some pet productsmay harbour 'harmful bacteria'. Owners are urged to practise good hygiene and take care when handling these items to avoid several uncomfortable symptoms.

The Government agency shared on X a message that applies to many of the estimated 13 million dog owners in the UK: "The Food Standards Agency [FSA] (@foodgov) is reminding people to take care when handlingraw pet food, following a survey that found some products cancontain harmful bacteria that could make pets and their owners ill."

It also cited advice from Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director specialising in Gastronintestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health at UKHSA, who said: "Raw pet food products can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever.

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"To reduce the risk of illness, pet owners should wash their hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food, clean and disinfect bowls, utensils and surfaces, store raw pet food separately from food for people and ensure good hygienic practices for handling of pet faeces."

Typically, raw pet food consists of unprocessed or uncooked meat, offal and raw bones, including both wet and dried items such as chews. This meat generally comes from animal by-products originally intended for human consumption but later reclassified as pet food only.

TheFSA recently surveyed 380 raw dog and cat food products bought from retail stores and online between March 2023 and February 2024. The results were subsequently analysed by the UKHSA to better understand the bacterial risks posed by these products.

Worryingly, the data showed that 35% contained harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, Campylobacter and E. coli - all of which cause illness in people. A further 29% also failed to meet UK legal safety standards.

These risks are largely because raw food is more prone to carrying bacteria that cooking would normally eliminate. Experts even suggest that contact with pet food or your pet could potentially spread antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Yesterday, Stephen Wyllie, Veterinary Head of One Health at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), said: "APHA is a world leader on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in animals, carrying out vital research to reduce the spread of AMR.

"Today's report is a reminder that raw pet food can carry harmful bacteria that pose a risk to animal health. Pet owners should handle raw pet food in the same way as they would raw meat to avoid food-borne infections and increased risk of antimicrobial resistance spreading between pets."

The FSA is working with local authorities to remind feed businesses of their duties in ensuring pet food safety and to reinforce guidance for pet owners on the safe handling of raw pet food. Owners also worried about potential risks to their pets should consult their vet to determine suitable feeding options.

Rick Mumford, Interim Chief Scientific Advisor for the FSA, added: "We know that many pet owners choose raw pet food. This survey shows that these products can pose risks to human and animal health.

"Good hygiene practices and safe handling can help reduce the risks to you and your family. Follow the same hygiene principles you would when preparing food for the humans in your life; washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, cleaning all surfaces, and storing and defrosting pet food and treats away from human food.

"Detailed information on the safe handling of raw pet food can be found on the FSA’s dedicatedraw pet food guidance page."