WHAT WE DO :: FOOD RECALLS
The Food and Milk Program ensures that companies initiate and carry out food recalls to notify consumers and consignees
about food that may cause serious adverse consequences.
Contaminated, adulterated, or misbranded food products entering into the marketplace may have a potential adverse effect on the public’s health. During these events, the food industry has primary responsibility for: 1) notifying consumers and industry, 2) identifying and containing suspect product(s), and 3) adequately conducting recall activities to ensure removal of suspect food(s) from food facilities. Regulatory agencies at the federal, state, and local levels have the authority and responsibility to monitor the proper execution of these activities and to assure the recall is effective. Food may need to be recalled if it has been:
- Biologically contaminated
- Chemically contaminated
- Physically contaminated (e.g.: wood, glass, metal found in product)
- Found to contain unlisted allergens
- Found to indicate evidence of tampering
Although most recalls are voluntary, Environmental Health may verify recall activities in food facilities under its jurisdiction by phone and/or field surveys. Embargo, impound, or other legal action may be necessary when a food facility refuses to undertake a recall, or when the regulatory agency determines that a violation exists.
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California Food Handler Law: