FDA WARNING_LETTER - OC Raw Dog LLC - August 29, 2025

On August 5, 2026, the FDA issued a warning letter to Viva Raw LLC, a North Carolina-based pet food distributor, following inspections and product sampling conducted in August 2025. Laboratory analysis performed by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services identified Salmonella Enteritidis and Listeria monocytogenes in several finished products, including the company"s chicken and turkey/beef varieties. Genetic testing further linked the Salmonella isolates to human illness clusters, indicating a significant risk to public health. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, these products are classified as adulterated because they contain harmful pathogens that can cause serious infections in both animals and the humans who handle the food. Although Viva Raw initiated a Class I recall and proposed adopting high-pressure processing as a safety measure, the FDA determined their response was insufficient due to a lack of documentation proving the implementation of these controls. The company is required to submit a written response within 15 working days detailing the specific steps taken to correct these violations and provide evidence of ongoing compliance to prevent further regulatory action.