the only way to avoid this is choose a food that does not sit on shelves anywhere…the safest I have found, and its the only food that has not had a recall EVER is Flint River Ranch. When you receive a bad its been made within the last 1-2 weeks. It really gives you peace of mind in the midst of all the constant recall scares!
You pay a small amount more, but have never been re-called or will be. Also when was the last time our faithful Pro Plan was re-called? 2007? Seven years ago.
Also beware of companies that do not subject their food to feed trials. Using computer profiles acceptable by the AAFCO for formulation makes your dog or cat the test subject.