A salmonella outbreak in New Hampshire that has sickened at least 21 people may have originated with Joey's Jerky chicken jerky treats, according to the state's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

The DHHS said in a news release it had interviewed several people who fell ill with salmonella contamination during the outbreak, and the common theme that emerged was the purchase of Joey's Jerky products.

According to the DHHS, the chicken jerky treats were sold at stores in New Hampshire including:

• America's Pets in Hudson
• Blue Seal in Bow
• K9 Kaos in Dover
• Osborne's Agway in Concord
• Sandy's Pet Food Center in Concord
• The Yellow Dog's Barn in Barrington

Scientists at New Hampshire Public Health Labs are testing samples of the jerky treats, which are being voluntarily recalled by the maker, Kritter's Kitchen Kreations LLC. The DHHS has not yet released results of the tests, the organization reported.

Dr. José Montero, director of public health at DHHS, said Joey's Jerky has been helpful with efforts to learn more about the salmonella outbreak and curb the outbreak.

“I want to commend the manufacturer of Joey’s Jerky for their cooperation in this investigation and the epidemiologists here at Public Health for their excellent work," said Montero. "Salmonella can be a serious illness and the sooner the source of an outbreak is identified the sooner it can be stopped.”

Information for consumers

The DHHS is encouraging consumers who have purchased the recalled jerky treats to immediately dispose of the product in a safe manner.

To request a refund or ask questions, consumers can contact Kritter's Kitchen Kreations LLC at 603-494-5954 or by sending email to [email protected].