How to check if food in your fridge is recalled
A recall usually covers specific lot codes, sizes, or dates, not every package of that brand. Start with the package you have, then open the official notice.
1. Read the package
Write down the brand, the product name, the size, and any lot code, best-by date, or establishment number. The USDA mark of inspection on meat and poultry includes a plant number (EST. or P-). Keep the package if you still have it.
2. Search the notice, not just the brand
Search RecallRadar by brand or product name, or scan the barcode. Many FDA and USDA notices print a UPC, but many do not, so a barcode miss is not a clean bill of health. Open the official notice linked from any result and compare the lot, date, and size.
3. Check the agency that regulates that food
Meat, poultry, and egg products (liquid, frozen, or dried eggs) are recalled by USDA FSIS. Shell eggs, produce, seafood, dairy, and most other grocery foods are recalled by the FDA. Both are listed on FoodSafety.gov. If the food was sold only at one store, the notice often names that chain.
4. Follow the notice
If your package matches, do not eat it and do not feed it to pets or other people. The notice says whether to return it, throw it away, or ask the company for a refund. Washing a product does not undo a recall.
Sign up for free email alerts and put the brands you buy in the watchlist. For what to do after you already ate some, read what to do if you ate a recalled product.
Official sources
- FoodSafety.gov recalls and outbreaks
- FDA recalls, market withdrawals, and safety alerts
- USDA FSIS recalls
Related guides
Which agency handles which recall · What to do if you ate a recalled product · Allergen recalls explained