Gold Star Distribution Recalls Multiple Pet and Consumer Products Over Contamination Concerns

Gold Star Distribution, Inc. has announced a voluntary recall of multiple FDA-regulated products, including pet food, after a federal inspection identified serious sanitation issues at one of its facilities. The recall affects products distributed in Minnesota, Indiana, and North Dakota and was published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on December 26, 2025.

Why the Products Are Being Recalled

According to the FDA, an inspection of Gold Star Distribution’s Minneapolis facility found evidence of rodent and avian contamination in areas where products were stored. Inspectors documented rodent excreta, rodent urine, and bird droppings in spaces holding pet food, human food, drugs, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and medical devices.

The FDA determined these conditions posed a significant risk of contamination by harmful microorganisms, including Salmonella. Rodents are also known carriers of Leptospira bacteria, which can cause leptospirosis in both humans and animals. Full FDA details available by visiting their recall notice.

Products Affected

The recall applies to all FDA-regulated products stored at the affected Gold Star Distribution facility, including:

• Pet food products
• Human food products
• Dietary supplements
• Cosmetics
• Drugs and medical devices

The recall does not apply to frozen or refrigerated products that were shipped directly to retail or convenience stores by manufacturers or distributors.

Because the affected inventory spans multiple categories and brand names, the FDA has published a comprehensive list rather than a single product label or SKU.

What Pet Owners and Consumers Should Do

Consumers and retailers who purchased any products held at the affected facility are instructed to destroy the products immediately.

Products should not be returned or shipped back to Gold Star Distribution under any circumstances. Refunds may be requested by providing proof of destruction to:

Gold Star Distribution, Inc.
1000 N. Humboldt Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55411

For questions, Gold Star Distribution can be reached at 612-617-9800, seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST.

Health Risks to Pets and People

Salmonella Risks

Pets exposed to Salmonella may show symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, decreased appetite, or abdominal pain. Some animals may carry the bacteria without appearing ill and can still spread it to other animals or people.

In humans, Salmonella exposure can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare cases, it can lead to more serious conditions including bloodstream infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. Anyone experiencing symptoms after handling recalled products should contact a healthcare provider.

Additional Disease Concerns

Rodents are primary carriers of Leptospira, the bacteria responsible for leptospirosis, which can cause serious illness in both humans and animals. Contaminated cosmetics or medical devices may also increase the risk of skin, eye, or device-associated infections.

Reporting Pet Food or Product Issues

The FDA encourages consumers to report adverse reactions, illnesses, or quality concerns related to pet food or other FDA-regulated products through its Safety Reporting Portal.

Consumers can also access reporting tools through the FDA SmartHub to determine the appropriate form for product safety or facility concerns.

Why This Matters Beyond the Affected States

Although the recalled products were distributed in the Midwest, large-scale recalls highlight how sanitation failures at distribution facilities can impact both pets and people across supply chains. Pet owners nationwide are encouraged to remain vigilant about recalls, regularly check FDA alerts, and monitor pets closely if there is any concern about exposure.

No illnesses have been reported at this time, but the FDA and Gold Star Distribution continue to investigate the source of the contamination.