The Federal Drug Administration recently launched a new version of its website, making it easier for consumers to learn about recalled products. The FDA created the site to comply with the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) enacted January 2011.
The new law requires that recall information be easy to find and understand. The site lists recalled products through 2009, with links to older recalls as well. The Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts site at www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm also lists items under consideration for recall, including links to information about each product.
Easy to Read Information about Recalled Products
The new product recall information site is easier to read and navigate than the old website. This version places every item in a clear table so users can quickly find the information they seek. The table shows the date of product recalls, the products’ common names and simple explanations of the reasons for recall. Large tabs across the top of the table take users to specific item categories such as human food, animal products, recalled drugs or medical devices. Clicking on a product’s name brings the user to a page showing the full text of the FDA recall notice.
The site also provides useful links to other websites along the sidebar and a search box at the top of the page. Users can search using keywords or brand names to find specific products. This helps consumers who may have heard only part of a recall report. They can use the search box to find complete information about recalls. Items are searchable by company name, product type and the date of recall.
Text Descriptions and Pictures
One of the most useful features of the new site is easy navigation to images of the recalled items. This eliminates ambiguity and makes it easier for consumers to identify dangerous products they may have in their homes. Text descriptions are not always clear, so the availability of images offers clearer identification of recalled products, helping consumers gain more certainty regarding potential dangers.
Products Being Investigated Also Listed
The website lists more than just the recalled products.It also shows those under investigation for recall, allowing consumers to exercise greater caution for products that might be dangerous. Users learn about potential dangers as soon as the FDA learns of them.
Notifying consumers of potentially dangerous products is important. Although not all recalled items pose danger to everyone, many undergo recall because they contain ingredients not listed on the label. Some consumers may be sensitive to those unlisted ingredients. Having the information available early keeps consumers safer, especially those at the greatest risk such as those with compromised immune systems.
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If you or someone you love suffered injury or illness because of a recalled product, contact our office. Our professional attorneys are experts in defective product cases. Through a free initial consultation, we will help you understand your rights and decide if you should file a defective product lawsuit.
