Free Food Recall Log template

A food recall log is a record used when food is recalled or withdrawn because it may be unsafe or non-compliant. It captures what product is affected, the action taken and the outcome, helping a food business respond quickly and keep evidence of how the recall was handled. What it includes: Date and time the recall or withdrawal was actioned. Product name, batch or lot code and use-by or best-before date. Reason for the recall or withdrawal. Quantity affected and where it was received or sold. Action taken, such as removing stock and notifying suppliers or authorities. Outcome and sign-off by the person responsible. How to use it: Record the affected product details as soon as a recall or withdrawal is identified. Note the reason and how you were alerted. Remove affected stock from use and quarantine or dispose of it as required. Record who you notified, such as your supplier or the relevant authority. Capture the outcome and any customer communication. Keep the completed log as evidence of how the recall was handled. Food businesses in Australia are generally expected to be able to recall or withdraw unsafe food and keep records of the process. A recall log supports this and complements traceability records; confirm the recall requirements and reporting obligations that apply with your council or state regulator. What is the difference between a recall and a withdrawal? A recall generally removes unsafe food from the supply chain, including from consumers, often because of a food safety risk. A withdrawal usually removes food for a reason that is not an immediate safety risk, such as a labelling issue, and may not reach consumers. Both should be documented; confirm the correct process with your regulator. What records help during a food recall? Traceability records that show where food came from and where it went are central, along with batch or lot codes, supplier details and stock records. A recall log then captures the affected product, the reason, actions taken and the outcome. Together these help you act quickly and demonstrate how the recall was managed. Who should a business contact about a recall? This depends on the situation and your place in the supply chain. Businesses generally contact their supplier and may need to notify a food regulator, with national coordination through Food Standards Australia New Zealand for many recalls. Because obligations vary, confirm exactly who to notify and when with your council or state regulator.