How food recalls work in the UK
What the Food Standards Agency's recall notices and allergy alerts mean, why food gets recalled, and what to do with a recalled product.
Food is recalled in the UK when it could make people ill or when the label leaves out something important, such as an allergen. Here is how the system works and what to do if you have bought something on the list.
Who issues food recalls
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, food recalls are published by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). In Scotland, Food Standards Scotland publishes its own alerts. The business that made or sold the food is responsible for running the recall, and the agencies publish notices so the public hears about it.
The main types of notice
- Product Recall Information Notices are for food that is unsafe, for example contaminated with bacteria such as salmonella or listeria, or containing pieces of plastic, metal or glass.
- Allergy Alerts are for food that contains an allergen not mentioned correctly on the label. The food is fine for most people but could be dangerous for someone with that allergy.
- Food Alerts for Action are aimed at councils and businesses rather than shoppers, and ask them to take specific steps.
Why food gets recalled
The most common reasons are undeclared allergens, bacteria found in testing, foreign bodies, and labels with the wrong use-by date. Most recalls affect particular batches, so the notice lists pack sizes, batch codes and best-before or use-by dates. Check those carefully against your own pack before throwing it away.
What to do if you have a recalled food
- Do not eat it. Even if it looks and smells fine.
- Check the details. Match the pack size, batch code and date to the notice.
- Take it back. Most shops give a full refund, usually without a receipt. Some notices ask you to throw the product away instead.
If you have already eaten some and feel unwell, contact your GP or NHS 111. For allergic reactions with breathing difficulties, call 999.
How to hear about food recalls quickly
Food recalls can move fast, especially in summer. You can sign up for our free recall alerts to get an email when a new food or allergy alert is published, or browse the latest food recalls.
More guides
- How to check if a product has been recalled
- What happens when a medicine is recalled
- How to report an unsafe product in the UK
- Recall, withdrawal or safety notice: what’s the difference?
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Always follow the official notice for a specific recall. Read our editorial policy or see all guides.