09/03/2026
What is a Food Recall?
By Mackenzie Parker, NDSU Extension Program Assistant
Prepackaged fresh produce made the news this summer. Most people are now very aware of cyclospora. Prepackaged lettuce grown in central Mexico and distributed by a specific company was recalled.
These days, many food products are mass-produced in large manufacturing facilities and typically go through numerous processes over a wide expanse of land before being stocked in grocery stores. Because there are so many steps involved in the production and distribution of food with multiple handlers, it is not surprising that issues arise regarding a product’s quality and public safety.
A food recall is the removal of a specific food item from grocery stores due to a high risk of, or confirmed, contamination. The extent of a recall varies from mass food recalls of entire product lines, but typically, contaminated products are narrowed down through investigation. Batches with a specific “best by” date or barcode number are common identification techniques.
Why does food get recalled?
Food products are subject to recall for numerous reasons, including physical, biological and chemical contamination. For example, food will be recalled if there are physical contaminants such as metal fragments or glass shards from packaging or equipment.
Chemical contaminants – for example, the cross-contamination of allergens such as peanuts, wheat or soy – also warrant recalls. Biological contaminants such as bacteria and parasites are also causes for food recalls. Food is often recalled for labeling mishaps or inaccurate ingredient and nutrition reporting.
Who issues food recalls?
Organizations such as the Food and Drug Administration and the United States Department of Agriculture have thorough guidelines that manufacturers and distributors must follow when producing and transporting food to ensure utmost cleanliness and safety to protect the health of consumers.
The FDA oversees any food products that are not meat, poultry or processed egg products, which are monitored by the USDA. When these standards are not met, it is strongly advised, but voluntary, for the manufacturer to announce an official recall. If a manufacturer fails to issue one, the FDA or USDA will mandate the recall.
How to know if a food has been recalled:
Oftentimes, larger food recalls that pose a serious risk to human health will be broadcast on the news and social media. Announcements from grocery stores that sell the contaminated item may also be available to the public. To stay up to date on food recalls, the FDA and USDA both have websites that list recent recalls, along with the specific details of each incident.
What should I do with the recalled food item?
Food recalls are inevitable, and most people will have a handful of instances where a product in their home gets recalled. It is crucial to dispose of the food item immediately. This can be done by returning it to the store where it was purchased or by throwing it away. If a grocery store does not accept the item back, put the item in a sealed bag and discard it.
Thoroughly clean the area where the item was stored as well. Never give a recalled food item to anyone or any pet. If experiencing symptoms of illness that are suspected to be from a recalled food product, seek medical assistance promptly.
What can I do in my community?
When preparing food for community events – or assisting with serving – be sure to follow current food safety guidelines. Check out the food safety section of the NDSU Extension website.
Sources:
FDA Food Recall List: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts
USDA Food Recall List: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls
