Legal Action Claims Mid-America Pet Food Responsible for Canine Fatality and Child Sickness

A class action lawsuit has been initiated against Mid America Pet Food by two dog owners in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Texarkana division. The legal action comes in response to a series of recalls by the pet food manufacturer, triggered by potential Salmonella contamination in a range of pet foods, including those for dogs, cats, and other pets. The lawsuit claims that family members fell ill after caring for one of the affected dogs, both of whom had to be euthanized due to their illnesses.

The plaintiffs’ legal representatives argue that Mid America falsely advertised pet foods as suitable and nutritious for animals. Allegedly, the company’s claims regarding targeted nutrition, taste, and overall quality were deceptive and misleading, as the products were found to be contaminated with Salmonella, contradicting the advertised standards.

Mid America Pet Food, acquired by TA Associates in 2020, specializes in super premium pet food, with its well-known product VICTOR sold in farm and feed stores, independent pet stores, and select online retailers. The company manufactures kibble in-house in East Texas, sourcing many ingredients locally.

The lawsuit details specific incidents leading to the legal action. One plaintiff, Courtney Andersen, reported that her dog, Spike, became sick and ultimately had to be euthanized after consuming Mid America’s dog foods purchased from Sam’s Club. Another plaintiff, Lisa Burmeister, claims that her mastiff, Rain Mae, experienced severe health issues and had to be euthanized after consuming Mid America’s Victor Super Premium Dog Food purchased from Amazon.com.

The court documents reveal instances where both plaintiffs and their family members suffered from symptoms consistent with Salmonella infection, raising concerns about the safety and quality of Mid America’s pet foods. The voluntary recall of various brands produced at the Mount Pleasant facility, including Victor Super Premium Dog Foods, Wayne Feeds Dog Food, Eagle Mountain Pet Food, and certain Member’s Mark varieties, was initiated due to potential contamination. The recalled products were distributed nationwide, affecting a wide range of dog and cat foods.

As of November 1, 2023, seven people have reported Salmonella infections linked to the recalled products. The lawsuit seeks to hold Mid America Pet Food accountable for the alleged false marketing and the resulting harm caused to pets and their owners.