New Yorkers are experiencing financial strain following a listeria outbreak that has impacted seven million pounds of cold cuts.
Manufacturers issue recalls when a safety concern with a product is detected. These recalls are communicated to the public, often allowing consumers to return the product for a refund or advising them to safely dispose of it. There are various reasons a product could be recalled.
Food recalls, which are either regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), are issued when the product violates regulatory guidelines. The FDA handles most food recalls, while the USDA oversees recalls related to meat, poultry, and processed egg products.
According to the FDA, food contamination by disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites is a common reason for recalls. Other reasons include the presence of foreign objects like broken glass or fragments of metal or plastic, or when a major allergen such as peanuts or shellfish is not properly listed on the label.
All food recalls are documented on the FDA and USDA websites, where consumers can find detailed information and instructions on how to proceed. Typically, recalled food can be returned to the store for a full refund or disposed of safely.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulates recalls for toys and household products. If the CPSC receives numerous complaints about a product, an investigation is initiated to determine the necessity of a recall. Information about such recalls can be found on the CPSC website, along with guidance on the next steps, including potential refunds for recalled products.
Auto recalls, managed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), are another category of concern. Consumers can report safety issues to the NHTSA, which will investigate and issue recalls if needed. In the event of an auto recall, consumers generally receive detailed notices through mail, and manufacturers typically offer free repairs.
