Blackman Industries, Inc.
Recalls Pig Ears Dog Chews
May 17, 2011
Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Blackman Industries, Inc. of Kansas City, KS is recalling all quantities of two brands of pig ears because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recall is a result of a reported illness of a dog in Missouri who consumed pig ears from the same production lot but from product sold by a different distributor, Keys Manufacturing Company Inc. It was found that a batch of the pet chews tested positive for Salmonella.
See: Keys Manufacturing Company Inc. - Dog Food Recall March, 2011.

To date, only this one illness has been reported.

PrimeTime products are in translucent plastic packages with yellow printed headers and are marked with the following UPC codes:

KC Beefhide - 20 ct.

Consumers can tell the difference between the recalled product and the new product by the placement of a production code on the new product located on the back of the product (i.e.2011FBC). A similar code beginning with 2011 and the production run is also printed on the bags under the Made In USA label.

The pig ear dog chews were distributed between Jan. 4, 2011 and April 29, 2011 in the following States:

They were sold through many of the following retail outlets:

Keys Manufacturing Co. and the FDA are continuing the investigation to determine what caused the problem.

Consumers that have purchased any of the PrimeTime or KC Beefhide pig ear products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-913-342-5010 Monday through Thursday between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

"Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

"Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

"Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian." -

Official FDA Press Release