Missouri Court Certifies Class Action Over Alleged Grain-Free Dog Food and DCM Link
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A Missouri court has certified a proposed class action lawsuit concerning the alleged connection between grain-free dog food and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The class action includes Missouri residents who purchased Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food from August 27, 2015, to June 21, 2024.
Key Allegations and Legal Claims
The lawsuit, Mary Harmon et al. v. Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (case number 2016-CV17833), alleges that Schell & Kampeter, Inc., operating as Diamond Pet Foods and Taste of the Wild, falsely marketed their grain-free dog food as “uniquely high-quality, safe, and healthy.” Plaintiffs claim this representation violates the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act due to an alleged increased risk of DCM associated with grain-free diets.
Diamond Pet Foods denies these allegations and maintains that its product labelling is not misleading.
Other Legal Actions
This lawsuit follows another class action filed earlier this year against Hill’s Pet Nutrition, alleging similar claims about grain-free dog foods and DCM. The February lawsuit by KetoNatural Pet Foods seeks $2.6 billion in damages from Hill’s, accusing them and a group of veterinarians of manipulating the FDA to investigate grain-free diets.
Read More: FDA Investigating Potential Link Between Diet and Heart Disease in Dogs
FDA Investigation and Industry Impact
In July 2018, the FDA launched an investigation into potential links between grain-free diets and DCM. Reports indicated that 93% of the 524 DCM cases involved dogs consuming diets with peas, lentils, or potatoes, common in grain-free formulations. Despite these reports, the FDA has stated there is insufficient data to establish a direct causality.
Impact on Grain-Free Dog Food Sales
The FDA’s 2019 announcement, which named 16 brands correlated to DCM cases, led to a decline in sales for those brands. However, ongoing scientific reviews have not found a definitive connection between grain-free diets and DCM. As of December 2022, the FDA maintains there is not enough data to establish a causal link.
Read More: The Truth About Grain-Free Dog Food: Insights from a Nutrition Expert
Potential Ramifications of KetoNaturals Lawsuit
The outcome of KetoNaturals’ lawsuit against Hill’s Pet Nutrition could have significant consequences. If the allegations are proven false, it could damage the reputations of the involved veterinary researchers. If true, Hill’s may face substantial financial penalties and be required to conduct corrective advertising.
Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
DCM is a heart condition that leads to an enlarged heart and can result in congestive heart failure. It’s more prevalent in large breeds such as Great Danes and Doberman Pinschers but has been reported in various other breeds, including mixed breeds. Early detection and appropriate treatment can improve heart function in non-genetic cases.
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