Statement About Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu)

We understand that recent news about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain may be causing some concern for pet parents. At Zignature, the health and safety of your beloved pets are our top priorities.

We want to assure you that all of our Zignature products (dry food, wet food and treats) undergo rigorous processes that effectively inactivate HPAI H5N1 and other disease-causing pathogens, and have had no recalls.

According to the experts at BSM Partners, “The highest risk at this time are raw ingredients, dairy products and pet foods that have not undergone any pathogen mitigation treatments that have been proven to inactive avian influenza.  Proven processes include extrusion cooking for kibble, retort cooking for cans and pouches and baking for biscuits and some treats.

Overview:

HPAI H5N1, or bird flu is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects both wild and domestic birds but can also infect mammals, including dogs and cats posing a significant health risk to pets.

Pets can become exposed primarily through contact with infected birds. However, contaminated pet food, especially if safety measures are inadequate during processing, can also be a risk. 

Other possible sources include contaminated surfaces, indirect contact with contaminated environments, people, or vehicles.

How Zignature Ensures Product Safety:

  • Thorough Thermal Energy (Heating & Cooking):

    • Our kibble is produced through extrusion cooking, a process that uses enough heat to inactive harmful bacteria and viruses like H5N1.
    • Our canned and pouch foods undergo retorting, a proven method of sterilization using pressurized steam. This ensures complete inactivation of pathogens.
    • Our treats are baked at temperatures that effectively kill harmful microorganisms, including H5N1.

 

  • Stringent Manufacturing Practices:

    • We maintain a strict separation between raw ingredients and finished products within our manufacturing facilities. This minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.
    • Our manufacturers adhere to all relevant regulations and guidelines from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and state agencies, including rigorous sanitation protocols and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
    • Comprehensive quality control measures are implemented throughout the entire production process, ensuring that every batch meets the highest safety standards. This includes inspections before, during, and after production for all products before they are shipped.

 

  • Continuous Monitoring:

    • We are closely monitoring the evolving situation regarding Avian Flu H5N1 and are working closely with our team of industry experts and regulatory agencies to stay informed of the latest developments and best practices.
    • We maintain strict communication and accountability with all manufacturers, ensuring standards are adhered to daily.
    • We are dedicated to keeping pet parents informed and up-to-date about our process and are committed to transparent and accurate reporting.

 

What You Can Do:

  • Keep Pets Away From Potentially Contaminated Areas: Do your best to prevent interactions with wild birds, alive and deceased, their waste, and their environments.
  • Maintain Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling pet food and clean food and water bowls regularly.
  • Store Pet Food Properly: Keep pet food in sealed containers to protect it from moisture and pests.
  • Monitor Pets for Symptoms: These include lethargy, lack of appetite, respiratory issues (discharge from eyes and nose, difficulty breathing), gastrointestinal problems (vomiting and diarrhea), and neurological signs (tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness). Many flu symptoms can mimic other illnesses, so it is always advised to contact your veterinarian with specific questions or concerns.
  • Choose Zignature: By feeding your pets Zignature, you can have confidence that they are receiving nutritionally balanced and safe kibble, wet food, and treats that have been thoroughly cooked and inspected.
  • Stay Informed: Learn more about “The Hidden Risk of Avian Influenza in Pet Food: Protecting Dogs and Cats” written by Dr. Katy Miller, DVM, CVFT, CVNAN, CPFFCP, CPCQI, PAS and Bradley Quest, DVM of BSM Partners here, and follow reliable sources like

We understand that the current situation regarding H5N1 (Bird Flu) can be concerning and are committed to keeping you informed and providing the safest and highest-quality nutrition for your pets.

If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact your veterinarian.

You can also contact us by calling our toll-free number at (888) 897-7207 (8:00 am – 4:30 pm PST) or via the red “How Can We Help You” Chat button at the bottom of this page.

Sincerely,

Your fellow pet parents and partners in pet health at Zignature