In a shocking turn of events, newly released public records have brought into question the Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) commitment to transparency and their handling of the potential risks associated with consuming raw pet food. The public records reveal inconsistencies and potential deception in their communication and regulation of the raw pet food industry, particularly in relation to the threat of avian flu.
According to the documents, the USDA has failed to adequately address the concerns of pet owners and industry professionals alike, who have expressed doubts about the safety of consuming raw pet food, specifically considering the increased risk of avian flu contamination. The records suggest that the USDA may have been withholding information or downplaying the real threat of the virus, which resulted in an increased risk for both pets and their owners.
Within the public records, unredacted documents reveal internal agency correspondence admitting concerns over the risk of the avian flu being transmitted to humans via the consumption of infected raw pet food. Nevertheless, the USDA continued to endorse the safety of the product and the industry for both animals and their owners.
Another prevalent issue exposed in these records is the USDA’s lack of enforcement and oversight of the raw pet food industry. While the USDA requires that specific protocols be followed for the handling and regulation of raw pet food, its reluctance to enforce and regulate has left the industry in disarray and risk of contamination.
The recent debacle has left authorities scrambling to address the issue and rectify the lack of transparency. Some states are now considering the implementation of their own legislation to regulate raw pet food production that could potentially override federal rules and fill the gap left by the USDA’s insufficient oversight.
The public reaction to this untenable situation has led to a heightened awareness of the issues facing the raw pet food industry and has opened a broader discussion on the USDA’s transparency and regulation.
