What is the Freshpet controversy

Freshpet recalls dog food over potential salmonella contamination

Freshpet is recalling bags of dog food sold by retailers in a dozen states and Puerto Rico due to potential salmonella contamination.

The dog food being recalled was part of a lot earmarked for destruction, but instead was "inadvertently shipped to retailers in limited geographic markets in the last two weeks," the company stated in anoticeposted by the Food and Drug Administration.

That includes more than 100 Walmartstoresin Alabama and Georgia, as well as by someTarget stores and other retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia.

The recall involves 4.5-pound bags of Freshpet Select Fresh From the Kitchen Home cooked Chicken Recipe with a sell-by date of October 29, 2022, and UPC code 627975011673, the company said. Both can be found on the bottom of the bags.

Salmonella can put both animals and people at risk. In humans, the elderly, very young and the immunocompromised are especially vulnerable when handling contaminated products, particularly if hands and counters are not thoroughly washed.

Healthy people infected with salmonella can experience symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. It can also bring more serious ailments, accordingto health officials.

Dogs with salmonella may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some canines will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy, dogs can be carriers and infect other animals and people.

Anyone with questions or looking to report adverse reactions can call (800) 285-0563 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time and Saturday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Eastern, or visit the company's recall site here.

Kate Gibson

Kate Gibson is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch in New York.

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Believes Reduction in Number of Directors up for Election at 2023 Annual Meeting is a Clear Violation of Delaware Law and Constitutes Breach of Fiduciary Duties

Seeks Expedited Proceedings in Delaware Chancery Court

NEW YORK, June 01, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--JANA Partners ("JANA"), which along with its affiliates and partners owns 9.5% of Freshpet, Inc. (NASDAQ:FRPT) ("Freshpet" or the "Company"), today filed a complaint in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware (the "Court") against Freshpet and the Companys Board of Directors (the "Board"). The complaint seeks a declaratory judgment and a determination that the Boards recent actions to entrench itself, and refusal to reverse them, constitute breaches of fiduciary duties; and an order requiring that the number of directors up for election at the Companys 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Meeting") be returned to its original size, such that four director seats, rather than three, stand for election at the Meeting.

JANA filed the complaint in response to the highly entrenching actions Freshpet took on May 17, 2023, which included changing the size and composition of its Board such that the number of directors up for election at the Meeting was reduced from four to three, and unexpectedly accelerating the date of the Meetingin the midst of settlement discussions with JANA regarding Board composition, conflicts and governance issuesfrom its usual mid-Fall meeting date to July 25, 2023.

JANAs filing contends that the Boards extraordinary actions, taken well after JANA publicly disclosed its interest in obtaining representation on Freshpets Board, constitute a breach of the Boards fiduciary duties, and that JANA should have the opportunity to nominate four Class III directors at the Meeting.

JANA has also filed a motion to expedite these proceedings to resolve this critical issue ahead of the recently-advanced deadline to nominate directors for consideration at the Meeting. The Boards decision to accelerate the date of the 2023 Annual Meeting, announced on May 17, 2023, required that stockholders submit any director nominations within just nine days of the announcement, a clear entrenchment tactic by the Board to avoid accountability to Freshpets shareholders.

Barry Rosenstein, Managing Partner at JANA, commented, "The Freshpet Boards recent entrenchment actions constitute a clear breach of its fiduciary duties, leaving us with no choice but to seek expedited relief in Delaware Court so that a truly fair and democratic election of directors is allowed to proceed. In our view, the Board's blatant misuse of corporate machinery obstructs the legitimate efforts of shareholders to exercise their rights and cannot stand. Further, we believe the Board has repeatedly failed to properly supervise management as performance worsened, liquidity deteriorated and shareholder value plummetedwhile allowing more than half of Freshpets independent directors to pursue outside interests with corporate resources and key members of leadership. It is clear now, more than ever, that change is desperately needed at the Board level."

Story continues

On May 24, 2023, JANA announced that it will be nominating four highly qualified candidates to Freshpets Board at the Companys 2023 Annual Meeting, scheduled for July 25, 2023.

Shareholders with questions can contact JANAs proxy solicitor, Innisfree M&A Incorporated, at (212) 750-5833.

About JANA Partners

JANA Partners was founded in 2001 by Barry Rosenstein. JANA invests in undervalued public companies and engages with management teams and boards to unlock value for shareholders.

Important Information

JANA Partners LLC, JANA Partners Management, LP, JANA Strategic Investments Benchmark Master Fund, L.P., and Barry Rosenstein ("collectively JANA"), and Scott Ostfeld, Diane Dietz, James Lillie, Timothy R. McLevish, Kurt T. Schmidt, Dwyane Wade, Carsten Charles (CC) Sabathia, Jr. and Ginger Gorden (collectively, and together with JANA, the "Participants") intend to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") a definitive proxy statement and accompanying form of GREEN proxy to be used in connection with the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of Freshpet, Inc. ("Freshpet" or the "Company") in connection with the Companys 2023 annual meeting of stockholders (the "2023 Annual Meeting"). All stockholders of the Company are advised to read the definitive proxy statement and other documents related to the solicitation of proxies, each in connection with the 2023 Annual Meeting, by the Participants when they become available, as they will contain important information, including additional information related to the Participants. The definitive proxy statement and an accompanying GREEN proxy card will be furnished to some or all of the Companys stockholders and will be, along with other relevant documents, available at no charge on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov.

Information about the Participants and a description of their direct or indirect interests by security holdings will be contained in an exhibit to the Schedule 14A filed by the Participants with the SEC on June 1, 2023. This document is available free of charge from the source indicated above.

Disclaimer

This material does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in any state to any person. In addition, the discussions and opinions in this press release and the material contained herein are for general information only, and are not intended to provide investment advice. All statements contained in this press release that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are "forward-looking statements," which are not guarantees of future performance or results, and the words "will," "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "potential," "could," "opportunity," "estimate," and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. The projected results and statements contained in this press release and the material contained herein that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, speak only as of the date of this press release and involve risks that may cause the actual results to be materially different. Certain information included in this material is based on data obtained from sources considered to be reliable. No representation is made with respect to the accuracy or completeness of such data, and any analyses provided to assist the recipient of this material in evaluating the matters described herein may be based on subjective assessments and assumptions and may use one among alternative methodologies that produce different results. Accordingly, any analyses should also not be viewed as factual and also should not be relied upon as an accurate prediction of future results. All figures are unaudited estimates and subject to revision without notice. JANA disclaims any obligation to update the information herein and reserves the right to change any of its opinions expressed herein at any time as it deems appropriate. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230601005673/en/

Contacts

MediaGasthalter & Co.Jonathan Gasthalter/Nathaniel [email protected]

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Unraveling the Mystery: Is Freshpet Making Our Dogs Sick?

Hello, dear pet enthusiasts and guardians of our four-legged friends! Today, were delving into a topic thats been wagging tails and raising eyebrows across the canine community. Theres been quite the buzz around Freshpet, a popular choice among pet parents seeking to provide their dogs with high-quality, fresh meals. But a pressing question lingers in the air, tickling our curiosity and concern: Is Freshpet making our dogs sick? Lets sniff out the truth together, shall we?

The Bark Around Town

Before we jump into the meaty details, lets establish our stance. Were not just any bunch of experts; were the kind who love to dig deep, beneath the surface, where the real stories lie. And when it comes to our dogs health, we leave no stone unturned.

Whats Cooking with Freshpet?

First off, Freshpet prides itself on offering meals free from preservatives, by-products, and other nasties that you wouldnt want anywhere near your dogs bowl. Their refrigerated meals have been a hit for providing a fresher, seemingly healthier alternative to traditional dry kibble. But as with any feast, its essential to inspect the ingredients and understand the potential impacts on our furry friends tummies.

Tales from the Dog Park

Lets take a stroll through some anecdotal evidence, shall we? Weve compiled feedback from a pack of dog parents, categorized by reactions to Freshpet.

Please note: This data is purely anecdotal and should not replace professional veterinary advice.

The Vets Corner

We chatted with Dr. Furry McFluff, a renowned veterinarian known for her holistic approach to pet nutrition. Dr. McFluff emphasized the importance of gradual dietary transitions. Shockingly, many tummy troubles stem from sudden changes in diet rather than the new food itself, she barked. When introducing your dog to Freshpet, or any new food, she recommends a slow and steady approach over a week or more.

The Final Scoop

So, is Freshpet making our dogs sick? The short bark is: not necessarily. Like people, dogs react differently to various foods. What sends one dog on a tail-wagging spree might leave another feeling under the weather. Heres a bone to chew on:

• Quality Over Quantity: Ensure youre feeding your dog the correct amount. Overeating, even of the good stuff, can lead to issues.
• Know Your Dog: Keep an eye on your furry friends reaction to new foods and consult your vet for personalized advice.
• Transition is Key: Gradually introduce new food to your dogs diet to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

Engaging the Community

Were all about digging deeper and understanding the intricacies of our dogs diets. Have you and your pooch had an experience with Freshpet? Were eager to hear your stories and tips! Share them in the comments below, and lets continue this conversation in a way that educates, engages, and enriches our community.

Remember, our dogs rely on us to make the best choices for their health and happiness. So lets keep our ears perked, our minds open, and our hearts full of love for our furry family members. Together, we can ensure that every meal is a step towards a healthier, happier life.

Can Freshpet Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?

Absolutely! Freshpet offers an array of recipes designed to meet the unique nutritional requirements of dogs with specific health concerns. Whether its low-fat diets for weight management, grain-free options for sensitive stomachs, or high-protein meals for active pups, Freshpets range aims to cater to the diverse dietary landscapes of our canine companions. Its a culinary mosaic, ensuring that even the most particular palates find satisfaction and nourishment.

How Does Freshpet Ensure the Quality of Its Ingredients?

Freshpets commitment to quality starts at the source. They partner with trusted farmers and suppliers who uphold rigorous standards for food safety and ethical practices. Every ingredient is chosen with a focus on freshness and nutritional value, transforming them into recipes in kitchens, not factories. This farm-to-bowl journey is underpinned by strict quality control measures, including regular testing and audits, to ensure every meal is not just delicious but also safe and nutritious.

Is Transitioning to Freshpet Challenging for Dogs?

Transitioning to Freshpet is akin to introducing any new culinary experience to your dogit should be gradual and attentive. Start by mixing a small amount of Freshpet with their current food, gradually increasing the proportion over about 7-10 days. This method respects the dogs digestive system, allowing it to adjust without distress. Observing your dogs reaction during this period is crucial; a successful transition often results in increased energy levels and improved coat health, clear indicators of the meals beneficial impact.

How Sustainable Is Freshpets Production Process?

Sustainability is at the heart of Freshpets operations. They strive for a minimal environmental paw print by implementing energy-efficient practices in their kitchens, reducing waste, and sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. Their packaging, designed with the environment in mind, aims to balance practicality with ecological responsibility. This approach reflects a broader commitment to not just pet health but the health of our planet, making every meal a step towards a more sustainable future.

What Sets Freshpet Apart in the Crowded Pet Food Market?

In a sea of kibble and canned options, Freshpet stands out by offering refrigerated meals that bring a new level of freshness to pet food. This innovation isnt just about texture or taste; its about preserving the nutritional integrity of the ingredients. Freshpets meals are gently steamed at low temperatures, a process that maintains the natural enzymes and nutrients often lost in conventional pet food manufacturing. This commitment to nutritional excellence, combined with their focus on quality ingredients and sustainability, positions Freshpet as a pioneer in the evolution of pet nutrition.

Comment 1: My dog seems more energetic since switching to Freshpet. Is this a common reaction?

Indeed, numerous pet owners report a noticeable uptick in vigor and vitality among their dogs after transitioning to Freshpet. This phenomenon can be attributed to the high-quality, fresh ingredients that form the cornerstone of Freshpets meals. Unlike traditional dry or canned foods, which may contain preservatives and fillers that contribute little nutritional value, Freshpets recipes are designed to mirror a dogs natural diet. The inclusion of fresh meats, vegetables, and fruits ensures a rich intake of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, directly impacting the dogs overall energy levels and wellbeing. Enhanced energy is a testament to the bodys positive response to nutrient-dense, easily digestible food.

Comment 2: Ive heard Freshpet is more expensive than regular dog food. How do I justify the cost?

The consideration of cost when choosing Freshpet over more conventional dog food options is akin to investing in preventive health care for your pet. The initial price point, while potentially higher, reflects the quality and freshness of the ingredients used, the absence of artificial preservatives, and the meticulous preparation process. Investing in a diet that supports your dogs health can lead to lower veterinary bills over time, attributed to improved nutrition helping to prevent diet-related health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and allergies. Moreover, the potential for increased longevity and quality of life for your pet offers invaluable peace of mind, making the investment in Freshpet not just a dietary choice but a holistic approach to your dogs wellbeing.

Comment 3: Does Freshpet offer options for dogs with food allergies?

For dogs navigating the choppy waters of food allergies, Freshpet provides a beacon of hope. Recognizing the prevalence of sensitivities to ingredients like grains, soy, and certain proteins, Freshpet has curated a selection of recipes specifically designed to avoid common allergens. These include grain-free and limited ingredient options, which minimize the risk of allergic reactions by focusing on simplicity and quality. Each recipe is crafted with care, ensuring that even dogs with the most sensitive systems can enjoy a balanced, nutritious diet without the worry of adverse reactions. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that every dog, regardless of dietary restrictions, has access to meals that are not only safe but also nourishing and delicious.

Comment 4: How long does Freshpet food last once opened? Im worried about waste.

Upon opening, Freshpets refrigerated meals embrace a shelf life that mirrors the natural preservation of fresh foods, typically lasting up to 7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. This duration strikes a balance between convenience and the commitment to providing fresh, preservative-free meals. To minimize waste, its advisable to portion the food based on your dogs size and appetite, ensuring each serving is fresh and consumed in its entirety. Additionally, Freshpets diverse range of packaging sizes allows pet owners to choose the most appropriate amount for their pets needs, further reducing the likelihood of unused food. This thoughtful approach to packaging and preservation reflects Freshpets dedication to sustainability and responsible pet care.

Comment 5: Can Freshpet be used for both puppies and senior dogs?

Freshpets culinary repertoire is designed with a profound understanding of the nutritional needs that span a dogs entire life cycle, from the playful days of puppyhood to the golden years of seniority. For puppies, Freshpet offers recipes that are rich in the proteins and fats essential for growth and development. For senior dogs, whose activity levels may have waned, there are options lower in calories but still rich in nutrients necessary to support joint health, cognitive function, and overall vitality. This versatility ensures that at every stage of life, dogs are not just eating but thriving, with each meal tailored to meet their evolving nutritional requirements. Freshpets commitment to catering to the dietary needs of all dogs underscores their holistic approach to pet nutrition, ensuring every dog enjoys a diet as vibrant and varied as their personalities.

Comment 6: Ive noticed Freshpet offers both refrigerated and frozen options. What are the benefits of each?

The landscape of Freshpets offerings includes both refrigerated and frozen selections, each designed with distinct benefits to cater to the diverse preferences of pet owners and the nutritional needs of pets. Refrigerated options, known for their convenience, allow for easy storage and immediate serving, embodying the essence of freshness and ease of use. These meals are crafted to be served with minimal preparation, ideal for the bustling lifestyle of modern pet owners.

Conversely, Freshpets frozen varieties serve as a testament to longevity and preservation, extending the shelf life of the product without compromising its nutritional integrity. This option is particularly appealing for those who may not have the convenience of frequent shopping trips, offering a longer-term solution without the addition of artificial preservatives. The frozen format also allows for bulk purchasing, which can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly due to reduced packaging and transportation impacts.

Both the refrigerated and frozen options uphold Freshpets unwavering commitment to quality and nutrition, offering a spectrum of choices to suit different lifestyles and preferences, ensuring that the essence of fresh, whole ingredients remains the cornerstone of every meal.

Comment 7: Is there scientific research backing the health benefits of feeding my dog Freshpet over traditional dog food?

The foundation of Freshpets nutritional philosophy is deeply rooted in the principle of fresh, whole-food diets, supported by an emerging body of scientific research that underscores the benefits of such diets for pets. Studies in veterinary nutrition often highlight the advantages of foods that are minimally processed, rich in natural nutrients, and free from artificial additivesqualities that Freshpet embodies.

Research indicates that diets closely mirroring an animals natural eating habitscomprised of fresh meats, vegetables, and fruitscan lead to improved digestibility, enhanced immune system function, and a reduction in diet-related diseases. Freshpets commitment to this approach is not merely anecdotal but is backed by the meticulous selection of ingredients, balanced formulations, and a manufacturing process designed to preserve nutritional value, aiming to optimize the health and wellbeing of pets.

While direct comparative studies between Freshpet and all traditional dog foods are complex due to the vast range of products and ingredients, the overarching evidence supports the notion that fresher, less processed foods can contribute significantly to a healthier pet lifestyle.

Comment 8: Can Freshpet help with my dogs coat and skin health?

The brilliance of a dogs coat and the health of their skin are often reflections of their overall nutritional status. Freshpets formulation strategy, which emphasizes the inclusion of high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, directly contributes to the nourishment of skin and coat health. Ingredients rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil and certain plant oils included in Freshpet recipes, play a critical role in maintaining skin hydration, elasticity, and promoting a glossy, vibrant coat.

Moreover, the natural vitamins and minerals derived from the fresh fruits and vegetables in Freshpet meals support skin regeneration and repair, offering protection against environmental stressors. The holistic nutritional profile of Freshpet can, therefore, significantly impact the improvement of a dogs skin and coat, making them not only a sight of beauty but a testament to a well-fed, thriving pet.

Comment 9: How does Freshpet handle food safety and prevent contamination?

Freshpets approach to food safety is both rigorous and comprehensive, embodying a farm-to-bowl philosophy that prioritizes the health and safety of pets. From the outset, Freshpet selects ingredients from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent safety standards. Upon arrival at their kitchens, ingredients undergo thorough inspection and testing to ensure they meet high-quality benchmarks.

The production process incorporates advanced safety measures, including pasteurization and high-pressure processing (HPP), to naturally eliminate pathogens without the need for artificial preservatives. Continuous temperature monitoring during storage and transportation guarantees that the food remains within safe parameters, preserving its freshness and nutritional value.

Moreover, Freshpets commitment to transparency and proactive communication ensures that any potential safety concerns are promptly addressed and rectified, including voluntary recalls as a precautionary measure to protect pet health. This multifaceted approach to food safety reflects Freshpets dedication to delivering not only nutritious but also safe, reliable meals to pets nationwide.

Comment 10: What are the environmental impacts of Freshpets production and packaging?

In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, Freshpet acknowledges the importance of sustainable production and packaging practices. The companys environmental strategy is multi-pronged, focusing on reducing carbon footprint, minimizing waste, and promoting recycling.

Freshpets production facilities are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing energy-efficient technologies and processes that reduce water usage and energy consumption. The sourcing of ingredients emphasizes local suppliers whenever possible, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local economies.

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