January 6, 2026 (Chicago, IL) – Gold Star Distribution Inc., based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has issued an FDA recall of several products distributed in three states after inspections found rodent and bird contamination at its facility. According to the FDA, the unsanitary conditions included rodent feces, urine, and avian droppings in areas used to produce medical devices, human food, dietary supplements, cosmetic products, and pet food.
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Families in Illinois may come into contact with these recalled products through routine travel, retail purchases, or household use and should remain vigilant to protect themselves, their families, and their pets.
The Risks of Pest Waste Contamination
Wild animals are not monitored like household pets and often carry parasites and illnesses that can spread to humans and animals through droppings and urine. Additionally, these animals often come into contact with unclean surfaces, and may climb onto surfaces that later touch products intended for consumption or other use. When food, cosmetics, or medical devices come into contact with these now contaminated surfaces, they become contaminated as well.
There are many risks associated with animal-related contamination, and understanding these risks is crucial to your safety. Some risks of animal-related contamination include the spread of:
- Bacteria (Salmonella, E. Coli, Leptospira, Listeria)
- Viruses (Hantavirus (rodents), Gastroenteritis)
- Parasites
Serious illnesses can be spread by wild animal droppings, urine, and saliva, and as such, this creates a significant public health risk
How it Spreads
Contamination from wild animals can be spread in several ways, including
- Direct Contact: Having direct contact with a contaminated surface, and then touching your face, mouth, or food, can lead to contamination
- Ingestion: Consuming food or drink contaminated with animal feces, urine, or saliva can spread illness or parasites
- Inhalation: Dried animal droppings release airborne particles carrying pathogens like hantavirus or even fungi, leading to respiratory issues
- Cross-Contamination: Pests often reside in unsanitary places, such as within walls or in drains or garbage. When they move onto a sanitary surface, they spread bacteria from these places onto the previously cleaned surface.
These unsanitary conditions put consumers and their pets at risk, and they put the workers at risk as well.
What Products Are Affected By the Recall
The contaminated products were distributed to many stores in Indiana, North Dakota, and Minnesota, and include various human foods, pet food, cosmetic products, dietary supplements, and medical devices. A full list of these recalled Gold Star products can be found here.
What Should I Do About the Recall?
If you have any of the affected products, it is recommended that you do not use them. Don’t give the products to any pets or other people, and destroy or dispose of the products safely. Do not send the products back to Gold Star, instead, show proof that the product was disposed of properly to Gold Star at 1000 N. Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411, and Gold Star will provide a refund upon request.
FAQs
How Do I Dispose of Contaminated Food Items?
When disposing of contaminated food items, you should put them in a sealed plastic or glass container before throwing them away. Double bag if using plastic bags. This helps prevent and discourage pests from getting into the trash later and spreading the contamination further.
Are There Regulations for Businesses?
Yes, businesses have strict pest waste contamination laws set by OSHA, the FDA, the EPA, and the USDA. These regulations include proper documentation, approved pest control, proper use of pesticides, and proper sanitation. These regulations are set in place to prevent health hazards due to pest contamination.
Which Pests Are Some of the Biggest Concerns?
Rodents are a major issue, especially in food production, due to frequent urination and defecation. This can easily contaminate large areas. Roaches and Flies are also big problems as far as pest contamination is concerned, as they carry and spread around 65 diseases and bacteria to surfaces and food products.
Contact a Product Liability Attorney Today
At Ankin Law, our product liability attorneys work to hold manufacturers accountable when unsafe products cause harm. If you were injured by a recalled product, we can help you understand your legal options.
We don’t settle for less. We don’t back down. We fight to protect your rights. When you work with us, you can expect
- 24/7 legal support
- Personalized and professional representation
- Free consultations
- Contingency fee structure (you owe nothing until we collect for you)
Contact Ankin Law today.
