Food recall coordinator — Food Safety Glossary

The nominated person within a food business who manages a recall, coordinating the removal of unsafe food from sale.

Frequently asked questions

Does every food business need a recall coordinator?

Any business that manufactures, imports or wholesales food should have a documented recall plan with a nominated coordinator, as expected under the FSANZ recall system.

What does the recall coordinator do first?

They activate the recall plan, identify the affected product and batches using traceability records, and notify FSANZ and the relevant state or territory authority.

What is the difference between a recall and a withdrawal?

A recall removes unsafe food from the supply chain and may include consumers, while a withdrawal removes food from sale for reasons that are not a safety risk, such as a labelling issue.

Should the recall plan be tested?

Yes. Businesses are encouraged to run a mock recall periodically so the coordinator and staff can confirm the plan works and traceability records are adequate.

Who does the coordinator contact during a recall?

FSANZ, the relevant state or territory food agency, and the business's customers and distributors, plus consumers directly for a consumer-level recall.

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