Fresh dog food subscription brand Years issued a voluntary full recall of its buckwheat meals on 17 August 2026 over a suspected link to canine dry eye, affecting around 40,000 customers. Subscriptions are paused for six weeks while the meals are reformulated with quinoa; supplements and treats are unaffected.
TL;DR · LAST REVIEWED 18 AUGUST 2026
- Years recalled its buckwheat meals on 17 August 2026 over a suspected dry eye link.
- Around 40,000 customers affected; the FSA and Trading Standards were notified.
- Subscriptions paused about six weeks; meals reformulated with quinoa.
- Supplements and treats unaffected; full credit offered on buckwheat boxes.
KEY FACTS
- Years issued a voluntary full recall of its buckwheat meals on 17 August 2026.
- The recall relates to a suspected link to canine dry eye (reduced tear production).
- Around 40,000 customers are affected; the FSA and Trading Standards were notified.
- Subscriptions are paused about six weeks while meals are reformulated with quinoa.
- Breed Health+ supplements and treats are not affected; full credit is offered on buckwheat boxes.
This is a developing story. Follow the brand's official recall notice and any Food Standards Agency alert for the latest position, and speak to your vet if your dog shows eye symptoms.
What has been recalled
Years has voluntarily recalled all of its buckwheat-based fresh meals after a suspected link to canine dry eye emerged. The recall, announced on 17 August 2026, covers previous buckwheat boxes only and does not affect Breed Health+ supplements or treats.
The action is voluntary and follows what the brand described as rising case numbers and input from veterinary ophthalmologists. Years said it notified the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Trading Standards before making the recall public.
The recall applies to all buckwheat meal boxes previously supplied. The brand has paused subscriptions for around six weeks while it reformulates the meals with quinoa. Full credit is being offered on buckwheat boxes returned through the brand's collection process.
The suspected health issue
The recall relates to a suspected link between the buckwheat meals and canine dry eye, a condition in which tear production drops. Owners are being advised to watch for specific signs and to contact their vet if symptoms persist.
Canine dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eye lubricated. Signs can include excessive blinking or squinting, pawing at the eyes, and thick discharge.
Owners noticing persistent symptoms are advised to contact their vet and mention the recall. The brand has said it is working with veterinary professionals to understand the link and has paused production of the buckwheat recipes while it investigates.
What affected owners should do
Owners who have fed the recalled buckwheat meals should stop using them immediately and follow the brand's collection and credit process. Around 40,000 customers are affected by the recall.
The FSA and Trading Standards were notified before the recall was announced. Years has set up a process for customers to return unused buckwheat boxes and receive full credit. Subscriptions for buckwheat meals have been paused for about six weeks while the reformulated quinoa meals are prepared.
Owners are advised to keep receipts and any veterinary correspondence in case of a later claim. The brand has said it will provide updates through its care page and direct customer communications.
How pet insurance may respond
Pet insurance is regulated general insurance, and cover for illness depends on the specific policy terms. Vet fees for investigating symptoms may be claimable, subject to excess and any exclusions.
Owners who have fed the recalled meals and notice symptoms should check their policy documents before assuming cover. Policies vary in what they cover for conditions that develop after a product recall, and some may exclude conditions that are considered pre-existing.
If a vet visit is needed to investigate symptoms, the fees may be claimable under the illness section of a policy, provided the condition is not excluded and the excess is met. Owners should contact their insurer as soon as possible and keep all documentation, including the vet's notes and any test results.
RELATED GUIDES
DISCLAIMER
This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Figures are accurate as at the date of publication and can change. Check the primary source or a qualified professional before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Which Years products are recalled?
The buckwheat fresh meals are recalled; Breed Health+ supplements and treats are not affected.
How many customers are affected?
Around 40,000 customers, according to the brand's recall notice.
What should I do if I have the food?
Stop feeding it, follow the collection and full-credit process, and contact your vet if your dog has eye symptoms.
Is the recall official?
It is a voluntary recall by Years; the FSA and Trading Standards were notified before it was issued.
Will pet insurance cover related vet bills?
It depends on your policy; illness cover, excess and pre-existing condition rules all apply, so check your terms.
SOURCES
- Years: product recall notice – accessed 2026-08-18
- Food Standards Agency: news and alerts – accessed 2026-08-18
- ABI: pet insurance – accessed 2026-08-18
