In an increasingly complex global food supply chain, food recalls play a vital role in protecting public health. When a food product is found to be unsafe due to contamination, mislabeling, or other hazards, regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) take action. One of the most important distinctions in food recall procedures is whether a recall is voluntary or mandatory. While both types aim to remove dangerous products from the market, they differ significantly in terms of initiation, legal authority, and public perception.
What Is a Voluntary Food Recall?
A voluntary food recall is initiated by the company that produces or distributes the potentially hazardous food product. The vast majority of food recalls in the United States fall into this category. When a manufacturer discovers a safety issue—such as contamination with a foodborne pathogen like Listeria or Salmonella, or undeclared allergens—they may choose to notify the FDA or USDA and begin the recall process.
Often, companies act voluntarily either out of genuine concern for public safety or to avoid the damage of forced intervention and the accompanying legal implications. Regulatory agencies still oversee the process to ensure that public health measures are followed, including notifications to the public, press releases, and steps for consumers to follow.
Voluntary recalls are generally more flexible and are typically resolved faster than mandatory ones. However, they depend on the company’s willingness to act promptly and transparently. In cases where delays or incomplete responses occur, public trust can be significantly damaged.
What Is a Mandatory Food Recall?
A mandatory recall, by contrast, occurs when a company either refuses to initiate a voluntary recall or fails to adequately respond to a known food safety hazard. The FDA was granted the authority to mandate recalls under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) of 2011. Before this legislation, the FDA had to rely solely on voluntary recalls and could only request companies to act. Now, if there’s a reasonable probability that a food poses a serious health risk, the FDA can legally require its removal from the market.
Mandatory recalls are rare but serve as a critical safeguard when companies do not cooperate. In such cases, the FDA issues a public warning, notifies the manufacturer, and provides them with an opportunity to voluntarily comply before enforcing the recall. If the company still does not act, the FDA can take legal steps to ensure the removal of the product, such as issuing cease distribution orders and seizure actions.
Examples of Each Type
A notable voluntary recall occurred in July 2024 when Boar’s Head Provisions recalled 7 million pounds of deli meat following a deadly Listeria outbreak. The company acted promptly and participated in a class-action settlement. This is an example of a company using a voluntary recall as part of their crisis response strategy.
In contrast, a mandatory recall was issued in 2018 when the FDA forced the recall of kratom-containing products after the manufacturer failed to address Salmonella contamination. The company was uncooperative, which left the FDA no choice but to exercise its FSMA authority to mandate the recall.
Why the Distinction Matters
Understanding the difference between voluntary and mandatory recalls is important for consumers, businesses, and public health officials. For consumers, knowing that a product is under a voluntary recall may indicate that the company is proactive about safety. A mandatory recall, however, can signal serious negligence or corporate reluctance to take responsibility.
For food companies, voluntary recalls offer more control over the narrative, the logistics of the recall, and the ability to limit reputational damage. Mandatory recalls, by contrast, may involve significant legal costs, regulatory scrutiny, and long-term brand harm.
From a public health perspective, both recall types are tools to prevent illness or death, but mandatory recalls serve as a vital backup when voluntary systems fail.
Final Note
Both voluntary and mandatory food recalls are essential components of food safety oversight. Voluntary recalls are more common and often demonstrate a company’s commitment to consumer health, while mandatory recalls are used as a last resort when that commitment falters. Understanding the difference helps consumers make informed choices, encourages companies to act responsibly, and reinforces the role of regulatory agencies in keeping the food supply safe. As the food system continues to evolve, the balance between cooperation and enforcement will remain crucial in protecting public health.
