How to Check if a Product Has Been Recalled

Every year, thousands of products are recalled in the United States for safety issues ranging from contamination to mislabeling to physical hazards. The problem? Most consumers never hear about these recalls until it's too late.

This guide shows you exactly how to check if any product you own or plan to buy has been recalled.

Method 1: Scan the Product with Product Scans (Fastest)

The fastest way to check a product recall is to scan it with Product Scans:

1. Go to productscans.com
2. Enter the product's barcode number, or scan the label with your phone camera
3. View the Recall Status section — it checks both FDA and CPSC databases instantly

Method 2: Search the FDA Recall Database Directly

The FDA maintains a public database of recalled food, drugs, supplements, cosmetics, and medical devices:

1. Go to fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts
2. Use the search function to look up the product name or brand
3. Check the enforcement reports for matching products

This covers: food products, dietary supplements, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, animal food, and tobacco products.

Method 3: Search the CPSC Recall Database

For non-food consumer products, the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) maintains its own recall database:

1. Go to cpsc.gov/Recalls or saferproducts.gov
2. Search by product name, brand, or category
3. Check for matching recall notices

This covers: toys, household appliances, electronics, furniture, children's products, clothing, sporting goods, and other consumer products.

What to Do if You Find a Recall

1. Stop using the product immediately
2. Read the recall notice for specific instructions
3. Check if a refund, replacement, or repair is offered
4. Contact the manufacturer if the recall notice provides a phone number
5. Report any injuries to the FDA (food/drugs) or CPSC (consumer products)

Common Reasons Products Get Recalled

• Bacterial contamination — Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli in food products
• Undeclared allergens — milk, peanuts, wheat, or other allergens not listed on the label
• Foreign material — glass, metal, plastic found in food
• Mislabeling — wrong ingredients, wrong dosage, wrong product
• Safety hazards — choking risks, fire risks, electrical hazards in consumer products
• Unapproved ingredients — banned substances found in supplements

How Often Should You Check for Recalls?

New recalls are issued almost daily. The easiest approach is to scan products when you buy them — especially:

• Baby food and children's products
• Dietary supplements and vitamins
• Fresh produce and meat products
• New household appliances and electronics
• Toys and children's gear