Pet Food Recall - Intentional Contamination?

Conspiracy Theory? Stories of intentional contamination of pet food surfaced some time ago, but it seemed almost too much to comprehend at that time. Were the "conspiracy theories" understandably borne out of grief and anger? There were many unanswered questions and new ones arriving each day. Now, after more research has been done and information from suppliers and manufacturers has been forthcoming, even the FDA is asking "was the contamination intentional?"

Wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate imported from two suppliers in China have been found to be contaminated with melamine. Originally, Chinese officials were cooperating with the FDA investigation. As of this week, US officials have learned that the Chinese government has blocked requests from the FDA to send personnel to China to inspect the facilities suspected of producing the contaminated products.

Update April 24, 2007: China is allowing the FDA to visit.

The facts: melamine has a high nitrogen content. Nitrogen is what is measured to determine protein content. Higher protein content translates to better prices at the market. Was the melamine added to somehow boost the nutritional value? Was it added to raise the market price? What are your conclusions? Cast your vote in this week's poll. Share your comments related to this post and the poll using the "comments" link below.

Not sure what to think? Read more about it in the news:

• Pet food probe turns to possibility of fraud
  From the Baltimore Sun
  
• One possibility: Pet food adulterated on purpose
  From CNN
  
• Pet Food Recall Expands; Evidence Suggests Intent

Related Reading:
Pet Food Recall: Melamine Found in Tainted Food