What is the purpose of a food recall?

The purpose of a food recall is to remove unsafe food products from distribution, sale, and consumption. This action is critical when there is evidence that a food product poses a health risk to consumers, such as contamination with pathogens, undeclared allergens, or other hazards that could lead to foodborne illness. Recalls ensure that potentially harmful products are taken off shelves and that affected consumers are informed about the risk, promoting public health and safety. While improving products, promoting new items, and changing packaging might be important aspects of a food business, they do not directly address the immediate need to protect consumers from unsafe food, which is the fundamental reason for initiating a recall.