How to Read Pet Food Recall Notices & Lot Numbers

When you see a pet food recall in the news, the first question is always: “Does this affect my dog’s food?” The answer depends on the details in the recall notice — and those details can look confusing if you’re not used to reading them. Let’s break it down so you’ll always know what to look for.

Key Parts of a Recall Notice

Most official recall announcements include the same pieces of information. Here’s what matters:

• Brand and product name: Example: Blue Ridge Beef Puppy Mix.
• Package size or format: 2 lb chubs, 12 oz cans, 24 lb bags, etc.
• Lot number / batch code: A unique code printed on the packaging, usually near the expiration date. This is the most important detail because recalls rarely affect every product made by a company.
• Best by / expiration date: Tells you when the product should be used by — often paired with the lot number for identification.
• Reason for recall: Contamination (like Salmonella or Listeria), mislabeling, or foreign material.
• Distribution area: Some recalls affect only certain states or regions.

Where to Find Lot Numbers on Packaging

Lot codes can look like random strings of numbers and letters, but they’re essential for checking recalls. Here’s where to look:

• Kibble bags: Usually printed or stamped on the back, near the bottom seal.
• Cans: On the bottom of the can, stamped in black or white ink.
• Chubs or rolls: Printed directly on the plastic wrap or paper label.
• Freeze-dried or dehydrated foods: Often found on the back panel or near the resealable zipper.

Tip: Always save the bag or label until the food is finished. Pouring kibble into a storage container may be convenient, but without the lot number, you can’t verify recalls later.

How to Check if Your Food Is Affected

1. Locate the lot number and best by date on your packaging.
2. Compare it directly to the information in the official recall notice (never rely only on news headlines).
3. If it matches, stop feeding immediately and follow the brand’s return/refund instructions.
4. If it doesn’t match, your food is safe to use.

Stay Informed and Prepared

Recalls in 2025 — like those involving Blue Ridge Beef and Supercan Bulk — are a reminder that every pet parent should know how to read a recall notice. By understanding lot numbers and expiration dates, you’ll quickly know if your pet is at risk or not.

Pro tip: Take a quick photo of your pet food bag when you open it. That way, even if you toss the packaging, you’ll always have the lot number handy.

Next up: We’ll explore whether raw and fresh foods carry a higher risk of recalls — and how companies are working to improve safety.