Dog food often comes with several numbers. The barcode identifies the product, a best-by date helps identify a production run, and the lot code helps trace the specific batch. The FDA says the lot may be in different places depending on the package. It may appear beside the date, on a seam or elsewhere. The name on the front of the bag is only the starting point. FDA lot-number guide
Build a ten-second habit
Photograph the front of the package and every printed code while you still have the bag or can. Check the image at full size. If you can’t read a faint stamp, take another photo under different light. If you decant food, keep the original bag or the identifying portion of the label while that batch is in use. Do the same for treats when you open a new package.
When a recall names a product you buy, compare the lot and size in the notice with the details you saved. For a suspected food problem, the FDA’s reporting guide explains what to collect, including the product, purchase details and what you observed. If your dog is unwell, call your veterinarian for care. The saved code can help with tracing the product later. FDA pet-food complaint guide
