Food Recalls

Why you need it

Food is recalled when it may be unsafe, for example because of contamination or an allergen missing from the label. Recalled stock can easily hide in opened ingredients or in dishes already made.

If you think food you supplied may be unsafe, you must withdraw it and inform your local authority, so a quick, recorded response protects customers and your business.

What it’s for

Four steps when a recall notice arrives: matching the name, pack size, batch and dates, removing and marking affected food, telling the manager straight away, and recording quantities and actions. It belongs in the office or near the delivery area.

How to use it

1. Put it up in the office or near where deliveries and supplier notices are handled.
2. Check every recall notice against your stock, including opened ingredients and dishes made with them.
3. Separate affected food and mark it clearly so nobody uses it by mistake.
4. Follow the authorised return or disposal instructions, and keep the batch details and records.
5. Sign up for Food Standards Agency alerts (Food Standards Scotland alerts in Scotland) so recall notices reach you quickly.