Food Recall Response Checklist

Comprehensive food recall response checklist for effective management of product recalls including identification, isolation, and disposition.

  • Industry: Food Service/Manufacturing
  • Frequency: As needed
  • Estimated Time: Variable
  • Role: Manager/Quality Assurance
  • Total Items: 31
  • Compliance: FDA Recall Procedures, FSIS Recall, FSMA

Recall Notification

Initial response

  • Recall notification received and documented?
  • Recall class/severity identified?
  • Affected lot/date codes identified?

Product Inventory Check

Identify affected product

  • Inventory checked for recalled product?
  • Affected product found in inventory?
  • Quantity documented?

Product Isolation

Segregate affected product

  • Affected product isolated/held?
  • Product clearly marked 'DO NOT USE'?
  • Product secured to prevent use?

Product Disposition

Final disposition

  • Disposition determined (return, destroy, etc.)?
  • Disposition documented?
  • Supplier/distributor contacted?

Pre-Inspection Information

Initial inspection details and documentation

  • Inspector Name
  • Inspection Date
  • Location / Kitchen Area
  • Inspection Type (Routine/Follow-up/Complaint)
  • Previous inspection date and findings reviewed?

Temperature Control & Monitoring

Verify all temperature-sensitive equipment and food items

  • Refrigerator temperature at or below 41°F (5°C)?
  • Freezer temperature at or below 0°F (-18°C)?
  • Hot holding foods at or above 135°F (57°C)?
  • Thermometers calibrated and functional?
  • Temperature logs current and properly maintained?

Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention

Proper food handling practices and contamination prevention

  • Proper handwashing observed (20 seconds, soap)?
  • Gloves used properly for ready-to-eat foods?
  • Raw and cooked foods properly separated?
  • Color-coded cutting boards used correctly?
  • Allergen cross-contact controls in place?

Food Storage & Labeling

Proper storage, rotation, and labeling of food items

  • FIFO (First In, First Out) rotation followed?
  • All items properly date-labeled?
  • Food stored 6 inches off floor?
  • No expired products in storage?

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Why Use This Food Recall Response Checklist?

This food recall response checklist helps food service/manufacturing teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for manager/quality assurance professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: as needed.

Ensures compliance with FDA Recall Procedures, FSIS Recall, FSMA. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Food Recall Response Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 8 sections: Recall Notification, Product Inventory Check, Product Isolation, Product Disposition, Pre-Inspection Information, Temperature Control & Monitoring, Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention, Food Storage & Labeling. It is designed for food service/manufacturing operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed as needed. Each completion takes approximately Variable.

Who should use this Food Recall Response Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Manager/Quality Assurance professionals in the food service/manufacturing industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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