Ashley Chaifetz, a PhD student studying public policy at UNC-Chapel Hill writes,

Two weeks ago, my dog’s food was recalled. After inquiring via the Natura consumer relations line, I was sent a voucher as compensation for the 30-lb. bag my dog Chloe had already consumed. So I got another one.

I recently read that Natura had expanded the recall of its products. From the website:

Out of an abundance of caution, we are extending our recall to include all Natura dry dog, cat and ferret food and treats that have expiration dates on or before March 24, 2014. We are sorry for the disruption, but we simply want to ensure that every product meets our highest quality standards.

I checked my new bag and it’s dated March 14, 2014 (and included in the expanded recall). I called Natura and the operator explained to me that Natura wanted a clean break and that they decided to be extra cautious in recalling the food. They want to know that 100% of what is on store shelves is safe. I didn’t get any details about what had changed for Natura, except that by expanding the recall, they would have more faith in the products left in the stores. They just weren’t sure about the products with expiration dates on or before March 24, 2014 and felt it was better to be judicious.

 I’ve decided to not use this product anymore; I am uncertain of their current ability to produce the safest product possible. I didn’t want a voucher (even though Chloe loves their food). Natura’s customer service understood, even agreeing to send me a refund for the bag I tossed in the trash.

 Chloe deserves to eat food that isn’t at increased risk of making her sick. I’m not confident that Natura is really addressing risks, as I still don’t have answers about the reasoning behind the expanded recall.

The company does its own internal testing. Make it public. Prove to consumers your product is safe. And if you have the data, market it at retail, cause I want food that won’t give my dog diarrhea or make my dog barf.

Ashley Chaifetz studies how the government influences what we eat (and keeps it safe), consumes too many carrots, and survived Campylobacter in 2011.