The current recall system in the U.S. has a lack of clear and consistent consumer-facing communication. We recently outlined the obstacles to fast and effective consumer messaging in our article, "Modernizing Recalls is a Must for Consumer Safety."1 Here, we lay out how food companies are struggling with recall execution and communication, stemming from a patchwork of regulations. This misalignment creates barriers for the prompt removal of contaminated product from consumers' homes. Ultimately, this lack of calibration results in avoidable illnesses and deaths.
It may come as little surprise that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA's FSIS) regulate different, although sometimes overlapping, products. What may be surprising is that they institute different, and sometimes conflicting, regulatory recall approaches, definitions, and requirements for consumer outreach. Additionally, state and local agencies are also involved in the process and, together, these regulatory bodies must work seamlessly to protect public health.