Missouri residents who purchased specific items from some Family Dollar stores between Jan. 1 and Feb. 18 may be at high-risk for salmonella contamination. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says products distributed in the Family Dollar Distribution Center 202 in West Memphis, Arkansas were in unsanitary conditions, including rodent infestations. 

Some of the products being recalled include animal foods, medical products, human foods, dietary supplements, cosmetics and medications. No specific brands have been mentioned. The recall does not include frozen foods because they are distributed differently. 

Consumers are being advised to not use the products and to return or dispose of them instead. Those who have concerns about handling the materials or have health issues are encouraged to contact a healthcare professional. 

During a recent inspection, FDA investigators observed rodents, dead rodents in decay, feces, urine, nesting, dead birds and many other disturbing contaminants. Some 1,100 dead rodents were recovered following a fumigation conducted in January. A further review of the company’s internal records suggests more than 2,300 rodents between March 29 and Sep. 17, 2021 also had to be removed. 

According to the FDA, rodent contamination can cause other infectious diseases aside from salmonella, and may pose a greater risk to those who are elderly, immunocompromised, pregnant, infants and children.

The FDA recommends washing hands thoroughly for those who have come into contact with any of the products. Salmonella can cause vomiting, fever, nausea and can lead to further health problems such as arterial infection of the heart. No reported illnesses had come from the recall at the time of publishing.

Anyone who has purchased these products can return the items to the Family Dollar store where they were originally purchased with or without a receipt. 

For any further questions or concerns, customers can call Family Dollar Customer Service at 844-636-7687. A list of all affected stores in Missouri and across the region can be found here.