Why food is recalled

Food can be recalled for several reasons, for example:

• due to contamination with pathogens like listeria or salmonella that could give you food poisoning
• because of manufacturing faults, such as plastic or metal being found in the product
• incorrect or missing allergen information can also lead to an allergen recall

Food businesses are responsible for recalling products that are unsafe. We work closely with local authorities and the food industry to publish alerts to consumers when food products are recalled.

Product Recall Information Notice (PRIN) 

A PRIN will be issued when a solution to the problem has been put in place, or the product has been, or is being, recalled from consumers due to food safety issues

Allergy Alert (AA) 

An AA is issued when the allergy information on food labels is missing or incorrect, and affected foods will therefore need to be recalled from consumers.

Food Alert For Action (FAFA)

A FAFA is issued when intervention by enforcement authorities is required. These notices and alerts are often issued in conjunction with a product withdrawal or recall.

Public Sector Incident Protocol (PSIP) 

A PSIP is issued when communications and coordination between Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the affected Public Sector Organisations (PSOs) is required. This is a national arrangement for responding swiftly and effectively to food incidents that require coordinated action across the public sector.

All food alerts and notices issued by FSS will be uploaded on to our website and social media channels. 

Recall notifications will also be sent out via text and email alert service for those who have signed up to this service.