The pet-food-contamination outbreak continues to expand as investigators focus on a new ingredient–rice protein concentrate that has been named as a second source of the problem. The original source of the melamine contamination was wheat gluten imported from China, but FDA officials now say that batches of rice protein concentrate, also imported from China, have been tainted with the dangerous chemical as well.

Yesterday, Royal Canin USA announced that they have discovered a “melamine derivative” in the rice protein concentrate used in some of its dry pet food products. “Although Royal Canin USA has no confirmed cases of illness in pets, we have decided to voluntarily remove all of our dry pet food products containing rice protein concentrate,” the company said in a statement. “We are taking this proactive stance to avoid any confusion for our customers about which Royal Canin USA products are safe and which products may be affected.”

The recall includes a variety of their formulas. Formulas in the Royal Canin Veterinary Diet line, which is only available from veterinarians, include Canine Early Cardiac EC 22, Canine Skin Support SS21, and Feline Hypoallergenic HP23. Formulas in their Royal Canin Sensible Choice line, available in pet stores nationwide, include Chicken Meal & Rice Formula Senior, Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Puppy, Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Adult, Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Senior, and Rice & Catfish Meal Formula Adult.

The company also announced that it will no longer use any Chinese suppliers for any of their vegetable proteins.

This entry was posted on Friday, April 20th, 2007 at 3:10 pm and is filed under Defective Products, Product Recalls.