A quick review of the FSIS current recall list shows that there is a significant number of recalls relating to undeclared allergens. In some cases, the wrong packaging was used; in others, suppliers had changed ingredients, but the change was never communicated to the processor so that its production/labeling staff could update the product labels or refuse to accept the “new” ingredient. The one common thread is that each and every one of these recalls was preventable.
The basic notion is quite simple to state but seemingly difficult to implement — the product formulation must match the label. Given the continuing recalls for undeclared allergens, one would expect that FSIS will issue another policy to charge inspectors with verifying an establishment’s ingredient/label control program.