Discovery Sparks Urgent Investigation (Image Credits: Foodsafetynews.com)
Gauteng, South Africa – RCL Foods issued a warning after thieves stole condemned batches of pet food potentially contaminated with Salmonella from a waste facility, with the products now appearing in unofficial sales channels.[1][2]
Discovery Sparks Urgent Investigation
Company quality controls detected traces of Salmonella during production in late January and February 2026. The affected dry pet food batches failed tests and were promptly condemned for destruction at a specialist waste management facility in eastern Gauteng.[1]
Certificates of destruction were issued, but criminals intercepted the stock before disposal. RCL Foods learned of the resale earlier this week through social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace.[2] The firm paused production at the plant, conducted a deep clean and sanitization, and began reinforced monitoring before resuming operations.
Officials now work with independent forensic experts and authorities to trace the theft. RCL Foods plans to press criminal charges against those responsible.[1]
Affected Brands Span Popular Lines
Six brands fell under the condemnation: Canine Cuisine, Bonzo, Bobtail, Catmor, Optimizor, and Ultra Pet Dog Food. These represented only a small portion of overall production.[1]
Sales occur mainly in Germiston, Boksburg, Benoni, and Alberton via informal sellers, not established retailers. Products bought from social media or unofficial sources since mid-January raise red flags, especially at steep discounts.
- Catmor: Various adult dry flavors like Liver, Tuna, Salmon (1.75kg packs, expiring August-September 2026).
- Canine Cuisine: Small-Med and Med-Large adult chicken & rice, gravy coated (1.5-6kg, expiring August-September 2026).
- Bobtail 2in1: Adult gravy coated steak, puppy milky bones chicken (1.5-6.5kg, expiring September 2026).
- Ultra Pet: Optiwoof and Superwoof adult beef & rice, chicken & rice (8-40kg, expiring August-October 2026).
- Optimizor: Premium adult chicken & rice, puppy 2in1, moist meaty chunks (7-40kg, expiring June-October 2026).
- Bonzo: Steak 7kg (expiring August 2026).
Full batch details appear on brand social media and via customer care.[2]
Salmonella Poses Risks to Pets and Owners
Salmonella contamination threatens both animals and humans. Pets may suffer diarrhea, vomiting, fever, lethargy, and dehydration. Humans face similar symptoms: stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and severe cases requiring medical attention.[1]
No illnesses have surfaced yet, but experts stress prevention. Owners should wash hands thoroughly after handling suspect food. All products in formal retail, pet shops, and vets remain safe and tested.[3]
“Our overriding concern is for the health and wellbeing of shoppers and their pets,” stated RCL Foods Chief Executive Officer Paul Cruickshank. He emphasized removing circulating stock and urged immediate consumer contact.[1]
Steps for Pet Owners and Next Actions
Consumers suspecting affected products must stop feeding them to pets or animals and avoid selling or donating. Contact RCL Foods customer care at 0860 103 764 (24 hours), WhatsApp 087 359 0476, or email RCLConsumerCare@rclfoods.com for batch verification and free collection.[1]
Tip-offs on the theft aid the probe via the anonymous line 0800 003 224. If pets show illness signs after informal purchases, consult a veterinarian promptly. Humans suspecting exposure should seek healthcare.RCL Foods press release details full packs.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Stick to authorized retailers for safe pet food.
- Check batches if bought informally since mid-January.
- Report suspicions to RCL Foods immediately – no confirmed illnesses yet.
This incident underscores supply chain vulnerabilities, yet swift company response protects most consumers. Pet owners stay vigilant to safeguard their companions. What do you think about this breach? Tell us in the comments.
