Memphis-based Sedgwick has collected a large amount of data on product recalls for the first quarter of 2024, with mixed results when it comes to food safety.
Overall, U.S. product recalls increased by 8% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous quarter, according to the Recall Index. In Sedgwick's first period he counted 909 recalls, the highest single-quarter total in his five years.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalls increased 27.6% from the previous quarter to 134 in the first quarter of 2024. USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recalls decreased by 31.6% to 13 in the first quarter of 2024.
Over the past five years, only three quarters have recorded more FDA events. Of the total current recalls, 51 FDA recalls were due to undeclared allergens, making them the leading cause of food recalls. His FSIS recall weight in the first quarter of 2024 increased by 22.1% to 378,055 pounds.
Sedgwick reported that the FDA, USDA, and Federal Trade Commission are working to ensure consumer safety and provide accurate information about the foods they purchase. “However, the new measures also demonstrate how many parties are involved in food safety and the complexities facing the food industry,” the report said. “Stakeholders should closely monitor regulatory activities and enforcement actions.”
Sedgwick also reports that “USDA's Organic Enforcement Enhancement (SOE) final rule is currently being implemented by the agency after being finalized last year.”
“The goal of this law is to improve organic management systems and traceability from farm to market and to combat “organic fraud.” It applies to the National Organic Program (NOP) and introduces regulations for the production, handling and sale of agricultural products labeled as organic.”
Some of the comments included:
“Companies will be watching closely to see how closely USDA will monitor producers and suppliers, and when the first enforcement action will be taken.”
“One of the focus areas of enforcement is lead contamination, especially in foods intended for children.Following continued recalls of applesauce found to contain extremely high levels of lead, the FDA is testing The theory is that criminals are intentionally adding lead to ground cinnamon to increase its weight and therefore its price. is.”
“Another issue impacting children is the ongoing 2022 Infant Formula Crisis Analysis. In March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that product recalls will contribute to supply disruptions. Published a report examining market factors.
The analysis highlights three key elements. First, only a few manufacturers have dominated the U.S. infant formula market for decades.
“The second is how rebates are structured under USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which gives market exclusivity to companies that participate in the program. And third, the FDA's extensive regulation of infant formula, which includes 15 weeks of preclinical studies and long premarket application periods, creates barriers to entry, according to the FTC. .”
“The FDA is also addressing the possible health risks associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The FDA announced that the manufacturer's voluntary phase-out has been completed and these substances are no longer sold for use in food packaging in the United States.
About Sedgwick
With 31,000 employees in 80 countries, Sedgwick is one of the world's leading providers of technology-enabled risk, benefit, and integrated business solutions. We offer a wide range of resources tailored to our clients' specific needs in casualty, property, marine, welfare, brand protection and other areas.
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