It may be me, but it seems like there have been even more recalls this year. I have been assured that this increase is not related to the “Notification” requirement mandated by 9 CFR § 418.2. That said, even if the regulation has not caused an increase in recalls, establishments that do not proceed cautiously in providing this notification may find themselves in a recall.
Section 418.2 requires official establishments to notify the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) District Office whenever the establishment believes or has reason to believe it has shipped or received adulterated or misbranded product in interstate commerce. It must be emphasized, the requirement is not dependent upon whether the adulteration or misbranding poses any safety concern. Even aesthetic adulteration or technical misbranding must be reported to the district.