RECALLS OF USDA AND FDA FOOD PRODUCTS

Under current regulations, food recalls are voluntary, not mandatory.

As a result, producers and regulatory agencies negotiate to determine the amount of product that will be recalled and in which geographical area(s) the recall will be issued. Once the terms of a food recall are agreed upon, a press release is issued and the state/local agencies and retail outlets are notified. Public notification of recalled product can be spotty, leaving consumers at risk if the product is still in freezers or in food storage areas.

Consumers can stay informed about recalled food products:

• Visit www.foodsafety.gov or www.recalls.gov to learn about food safety news and food safety alerts.
• Visit USDA’s website to view a list of recent meat and poultry recalls.http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/index.asp.
• Register to receive e-mail notification of USDA recalls and public health alerts. https://service.govdelivery.com/service/multi_subscribe.html?code=USFSIS
• Visit FDA’s website to view a list of recent recalls, market withdrawals and safety alerts. http://www.fda.gov/opacom/7alerts.html
• Register to receive e-mail notification of FDA recalled products.https://service.govdelivery.com/service/subscribe.html?code=USFDA_48
• Look for recall notices at local retailers.