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Product Recall Course for the Institute of Mechanical Engineers – 01/02/12 – read more

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Elm Grove Astros Sponsored by RQA - Update – 01/12/11 – read more

Polish Language Version - On Line Level 1 Food Safety Awareness For Manufacturing – 01/12/11 – read more

RQA Out and About – 01/11/11 – read more

Elm Grove Astros update – 01/11/11 – read more

Online Level 1 Food Safety Awareness for Manufacturing – 01/11/11 – read more

RQA Out and About – 01/10/11 – read more

RQA Football Sponsorship Deal – 01/10/11 – read more

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Recall Case Studies – Consumer Product Industry

A voluntary recall has been announced on infant rattles as they have been found to pose a risk of choking. The rattle's handle is small enough to fit into a child's throat, posing a choking hazard and violating federal rattle standards.

One batch of a certain model of scooter is being recalled from consumers as the product poses a safety risk. A small number of incidents have been reported of the handlebar ‘downtube' bending with the possibility of snapping.

Due to inadequate performance of the chain brake and inadequate mechanical strength of a model of chainsaw, the import of the product has been rejected by customs authorities. The product poses a risk of injuries and burns.

Glue imported from China was found to contain 19.20% by weight of chloroform. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers issued.

A company is recalling a certain model of bracelet because the product poses a safety risk to consumers. The beads of the bracelet could potentially be dangerous if swallowed.

Voluntary corrective action has been undertaken in order to rectify a fault with a certain brand of rifle. When using appropriate ‘Magnum' calibre ammunition, the chamber may suddenly move out of position posing a risk of injuries.

A certain brand and style of motor vehicle has been found to pose a risk of fire due to faulty pipe material allowing the possibility of diesel leaking and potentially causing the vehicle to catch fire. Voluntary corrective action is being undertaken by the manufacturer.

A recall from consumers of a model of carbon monoxide detector has been ordered by the authorities. The product poses a chemical risk because it does not properly detect carbon monoxide gas.

A certain model of pushchair has been found to pose a risk of injuries as the secondary strut can be easily deformed, which could make the pushchair collapse. A seizure of the product has been ordered by authorities.

A product recall has been issued on a teeth whitening system for home use as the product contains 8% hydrogen peroxide (recognised safe limit is 6%). The product poses as chemical risk as the user may suffer irritation or inflammation to the gums and mouth.

Authorities have seized a certain model of lighting chain because the product poses a risk of fire and electric shock. There is no effective anchorage to the bulbs and the conductors can be easily pulled out.

Sky Lanterns originating in the UK have been withdrawn from the market by the authorities due to the product posing a risk of burns and injuries. After launching, the lanterns fly in the air without control rendering it difficult or impossible to avoid the lanterns coming into contact with flammable material.

A toy fridge magnet painting set has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market as it has been found to pose a risk of choking. The toy includes small parts which could easily be swallowed and which have a magnetic flux index of 124 kG2 mm2.

A soft ball has been found to pose a chemical risk and has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market and recalled from consumers by the importer, manufacturer and supplier. The product contains 12% by weight of d- (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) which is prohibited in all toys and childcare items.

Authorities have ordered that a portable lamp is withdrawn from the market as it poses a risk of electric shock due to faults with the main supply cable.

A children's tracksuit in Poland has been found to pose a risk of injuries due to the product having cords at the waist which are not fixed and are too long. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

Spanish customs authorities have rejected imports of toy garages as the product poses a risk of choking. The product can easily break into small parts thus posing a risk of choking.

Certain models of snowmobiles are being voluntarily recalled from consumers. The headlamp fuse of the product can fail which can limit visibility and pose a crash hazard.

A toy mobile phone has been found to pose a risk of damage to hearing as the sound level is too high (92.8dB). A sales and distribution ban has been issued by authorities.

Due to the discovery of a brand of babies' shoes containing 17.8 mg/kg of Chromium (VI) in the leather part of the shoe, the product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

Due to a production error with certain units of an electronic thermostat, the product has been found to pose a risk of fire as they can smoke or develop soot. The affected units are being recalled from consumers.

Custom authorities in the UK have rejected an import of radio-controlled toy helicopters as they pose a risk of fire and electric shock due to a fault with the power supply unit.

A nodding reindeer silhouette Christmas decoration has been recalled from consumers due to an electrical fault posing a possible risk of electric shock. 

Voluntary corrective action has been taken by a manufacturer in order to correct a fault with the auxiliary cooler pump of one of their products. The pump may fail at high operating temperatures posing a risk of fire to the engine or the whole vehicle.

Authorities have ordered a sales ban and a withdrawal from the market on joke ‘shock' chewing gum in Poland. The product poses a risk of electric shock when a person touches the live parts of the product in normal use.

A stuffed toy has been found to pose a risk of choking because the eyes on the product are small enough to be easily swallowed. The product has been voluntarily recalled from the market and the importer has issued a recall from consumers.

A cable fault with a certain model of motorcycle has been found to pose a risk of injury as it could cause the vehicle electronics to fail and possibly stopping the motor. Voluntary corrective action is being taken by the manufacturer.

A personal music system is being recalled due to the possibility of the product causing a safety risk to the consumer. The battery in the product may overheat and pose a safety risk.

A certain make of glass vase is being recalled in the USA because it can break when a consumer picks it up, posing a laceration hazard. Four reports have been received of the vase shattering and causing lacerations to the hands. 

A step walker for children has not been marked with the required safety warnings outlining any potential risk to children. The product is being recalled and consumers should return the product for a full refund.

Due to a gasket that may not be properly fuel resistant, a recreational craft has been found to pose a risk of fire. Voluntary corrective action is being taken by the manufacturer.

A children's face paint set has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market as it poses a chemical risk. The yellow face paint contains excessive levels of lead (16900 mg/kg).

The drawstrings of hooded clothing do not comply with the safety requirements of European standard EN 14862 (to minimise the risk of accidental entrapment by cords or drawstrings on children's clothing) and a sales ban on the product has been issued by authorities.

The distributor of a necklace for babies has voluntarily withdrawn the product from the market. The product poses risk of strangulation should it catch on an immovable object whilst being worn.

A smoke alarm has been seized by authorities as it does not detect commonly occurring types of fire or produce sufficient sound power for the alarm. The product has been voluntarily recalled from the market and a recall from consumers has been issued.

A company has received reports that the large mirror on a certain model of wardrobe can detach and fall, creating sharp shards when it breaks. The product has been recalled from consumers.

Authorities have ordered that a toy rattle be withdrawn from the market as it poses a risk of choking. The product can break easily, releasing the small balls contained inside and generating small parts.

A certain batch of towels in Germany has been found to contain azo dyes releasing benzidine and does therefore not comply with the REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of CHemicals). The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

Children's swim ring (inflatable) has been found to pose a risk of drowning as it does not meet the buoyancy safety requirements. A sales ban and a withdrawal from the market have been issued by the authorities.

A voluntary stop of sales has been undertaken on magnetic snake eggs. The product fits completely into the test cylinder and their magnetic flux is above 286 kG² mm² and does not comply with the Toys Directive.

Authorities have ordered that a girls' bikini be withdrawn from the market and that the product is recalled from consumers. Functional cords and knots in the neck area and back of the top pose a risk of strangulation and injuries.

A certain model of LCD televisions has been found to pose a safety risk as a limited number of the product may contain a faulty component which may overheat. The manufacturing company are offering to inspect and, if necessary, repair the product for free.

A children's folding tent is being voluntarily recalled as it poses a risk of injury to consumers. The steel wire of the tent can break in use causing sharp wire ends to protrude from the product.

A cosmetic product designed to lighten skin colour has been voluntarily recalled from the market as it poses a chemical risk to consumers. The product contains 2.69% kojic acid content.

Due to faults with the conductors of an extension lead, the product has been ordered by the authorities to be withdrawn from the market. 

A certain model of motorcycle helmet has been found to pose a risk of injury as the product does not have sufficient shock absorption capacity. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers issued.

A certain batch of brushcutter/trimmers is being recalled from consumers as they pose a risk of fire. The top of the fuel tank does not meet specifications allowing the possibility of fuel to leak. There have been no injuries reported to date.

Plastic tabs on the feet of a certain model of step stool have caused the product to be unstable, posing a fall hazard to consumers. The product is being voluntarily recalled.

A voluntary recall from consumers has been issued by the distributor of a pull toy for children as the product has small parts that can easily become detached, causing a risk of choking. The recall is being supervised by the authorities.  

A certain brand of electric scooter has been found to pose a risk of fire due to a defective crimp on the charging plug of the product. Voluntary action is being taken by the manufacturer.

An electronic alcohol tester has been found to pose a risk of injuries due to the product's inability to detect a high alcohol level. This creates the possibility of the user driving with an undetected high alcohol level. Measures have been taken by the authorities.

A certain brand and model of lawn tractor has been found to pose a risk of laceration as the mower blades on the product can spin longer than normal after the operator turns off the power. Consumers should contact the dealer from whom they purchased the product to receive a free inspection and replacement as necessary.

An import of rattle sets for children was rejected by the customs authorities in Finland as the product poses a risk of choking and injuries. The product can break easily releasing small parts which could be swallowed and also has rough edges which could cause injuries.

Voluntary corrective action is being taken by the manufacturer of a trailer which has been found to pose a risk of injuries. A fault with the axle arm of the trailer means it could overturn leading to a potential accident.

Tattoo ink originating from the United States has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market by the importer as it poses a chemical risk. The product contains 27 mg/kg of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and does not comply with German national legislation.

Defects with the handlebars, chainguard and mudguard of a children's bicycle has caused it to be withdrawn from the market as it poses a risk of injuries. Authorities have also ordered a recall of the product from consumers.

A company is recalling fitness resistance cords and cord kits as they pose a risk of injury. A black, plastic ball attached to the product's door anchor can unexpectedly release, injuring the user. Three incidents have been reported.

A sales ban on a certain brand and model of fireworks has been ordered by authorities in Belgium. The product poses a risk of cuts and damage to sight as debris from the product can be projected more than 1m laterally.

An infant car seat is being voluntarily recalled by the manufacturer as it poses a risk of burns. The product has not been treated with a fire retardant and therefore does not comply with national legislation.

A certain product range of fridge freezers have been found to pose a risk of fire as a faulty timer can fail, overheat and cause a potential fire hazard. The manufacturer is contacting owners of affected models of the product and making the required modification free of charge.

Authorities have ordered that certain items of children's clothing be withdrawn from the market as they pose a risk of strangulation and/or injuries due to the presence of cords and drawstrings in inappropriate locations or inappropriate lengths.

Authorities have ordered that a rechargeable torch be withdrawn from the market and recalled from consumers as it poses a risk of fire and electric shock. 

A toy puzzle mat was found to pose a risk of choking as the small parts of foam can easily be broken off and then swallowed or inhaled. The product is to be withdrawn from the market and authorities have ordered a recall from consumers.

A voluntary recall of cast iron casserole dishes has been announced as the enamel coating on the product can crack or break during use. The broken pieces of enamel can then fly off as a projectile, posing a risk of laceration or burn hazard.

Certain batches of energy saver light bulbs are being recalled from consumers as the glue on the product can fail allowing the glass outer envelope to fall posing a laceration hazard to consumers. There have been 40 reports of incidents received in Canada alone.

After carrying out routine checks, a company has discovered that the car seat from a children’s travel system does not include the correct fire retardant treatment. Consumers should have received a letter notifying them of the problem from the retailer.

An import of skin lightening cream from the Democratic Republic of Congo was rejected by the customs authorities as it contains hydroquinone which is prohibited by the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC (laws relating to cosmetics products).

Voluntary corrective action has been taken by the manufacturer of a motor vehicle as the fixing screws of the back axis of the product are not sufficiently tightened and could potentially cause an accident.

A model of spray paint has been found to pose a chemical risk as the product contains about 13.6% toluene. The product does not comply with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of CHemicals) Regulation and has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

A motorcycling helmet has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers issued because it poses a risk of injury. The helmet does not have sufficient shock absorption and the tightening system is not sufficiently strong.

A quad bike has been found to pose a risk of injuries to due to a possible malfunction of the brakes and the fact that many mechanical parts are not covered. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market, a recall from consumers has been issued and the product has been seized by the authorities.

A watercooler supplied with AC/DC power supply is being voluntarily withdrawn from the market as it has insufficient isolation and does not, therefore, comply with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD).

The product poses a risk of damage to hearing since the exploding bomb bag produces a sound of 148 dB. As a result it has been withdawn from the market and authorities have ordered it to be recalled from consumers.

A company is voluntarily recalling their silk scarves, dresses, skirts and blouses as the garments failed to meet the federal flammability standard for wearing apparel, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Mini vuvuzelas have been found to pose a risk of choking as it is possible to inhale the artificial whistle. A voluntary withdrawal from the market has been issued by the distributor. One incident has been reported.

A company's own safety checks have found that in some isolated cases the back of the plug from a CD boom box can detach and pose a risk of injury. The product is being recalled.

A doll originating from Hong Kong has been found to pose a chemical risk as it contains 23.7% by weight of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). A withdrawal from the market has been ordered by autorities.

A manufacturer is taken voluntary corrective action to correct a defective master brake cylinder in one of their motor vehicles. The defect in the product could result in an oil leak and potentially lead to reduced braking performance.         

 

Rubber spiked balls are being recalled as the product has a cord that can produce a yo-yo effect and can stretch over the safe limit of 500mm in length. The highly elastic and ‘sticky' nature of the cord means it poses a risk of choking/suffocation.

A lawn trimmer is being voluntarily recalled from consumers as it poses a risk of electric shock. The rear cover of the charger can be detached exposing live parts meaning that the product does not comply with the Low Voltage Directive.

A toy laser is being voluntarily withdrawn from the market because the product uses a Class 2 laser which poses a risk of damage to sight. The black plastic in the product contains more than 0.1% (38%) by weight of di-isononyl phthalate (DINP) plastified material which is prohibited in all toys.

A chair-top booster seat for children is being voluntarily withdrawn from sale by the distributor as it poses a risk of injuries. The product is made to use in conjunction with an adult seat which are not stable enough and may topple over in certain circumstances.

Authorities have ordered that a certain shampoo be withdrawn from the market as it contains a presence of methyldibromo glutaronitrile. The product poses a chemical risk and does not comply with the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC (safety of cosmetics).

A voluntary recall from consumers has been issued on a bicycle and skate helmet as it poses a risk of injuries. The product does not provide sufficient shock absorption to the user in the case of an accident.

Certain models of sunglasses are being recalled as they do not meet the lens performance requirements stipulated by Australian authorities. Users of the product may not be sufficiently protected from the sun's damaging UV rays which could cause permanent eye damage.

A retailer of a toy necklace has issued a voluntary withdrawal from the market and recall from consumers as it poses a risk of strangulation. The product has a cord of over 220mm which may form a noose.

A sales ban on a certain model of extension cable has been ordered by authorities as it poses a risk of electric shock. The power cord does not have an earth wire and the plastic materials supporting live parts do not have sufficient heat resistance.

Rechargeable battery packs have been voluntarily recalled from consumers. The product has been found to pose a risk of fire and burns as it can overheat and rupture.

A company has issued a product warning on certain models of window panes as there is a risk of spontaneous glass breakage. More information on this warning can be found on the Trading Standards Institute website.

A company is expanding their recall of certain models of booster seats as the product poses a risk of injuries. The booster seat's restraint buckle can open unexpectedly allowing a child to fall from the chair and be injured.

Sports shoes originating from China pose a chemical risk to consumers and have therefore been withdrawn from the market with corrective action being ordered by the authorities. The product exceeds the limit of 30mg/kg of Benzidine and methylendianiline.

The lack of security stitching in a model of energy absorber poses a risk of injuries. A voluntary stop of sales and a recall from the consumer have been issued as the product does not comply with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) directive.

Faulty leads and tubing on a shoe dryer from Germany have resulted in the distributor issuing a voluntary recall to consumers. The product does not comply with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) or European standards EN 6033 and EN 50075.

A voluntary recall from consumers has been issued on a certain brand of picnic chair as it poses a risk of injuries. There is a risk of entrapment of fingers and falling off the chair. Five incidents have been reported.

A certain model of passenger car has been found to pose a risk of injuries. The clip-tabs on the bonnet louvre of the product may fracture. This may result in the louvre coming loose while the vehicle is in motion and posing a danger to other vehicles. The manufacturer has taken voluntary corrective action.

A teddy bear poses a risk of choking due to the presence of a cord longer than 220 mm that could form a noose around the neck. There is also a small part (wooden ball) which is easily detached and could be swallowed or inhaled. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers issued.

A company has voluntarily stopped selling a novelty lighter and has withdrawn it from the market as it poses a risk of burns. The product is attractive to children and does not comply with the Commission Decision 2006/502/EC which prohibits placing novelty lighters on the market.

A trilby hat does not comply with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances) Regulation because it contains azo dyes (black colours) releasing 189 mg/kg of benzidine. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Voluntary actions have been taken by the manufacturer to rectify issues with a motorcycle top box. The product currently poses a risk of injuries due to the possibility of the top box mountings breaking meaning that it could fall off whilst the motorcycle is moving.

Consumers who have purchased a certain model of kettle are being advised to contact the retailer to receive a replacement base for the kettle. The base of the kettle has been found to have a potential fault posing a risk of injuries. Consumers can also return the product for a full refund.

A voluntary withdrawal from the market and a recall from consumers have been issued on a protective sports helmet as it poses a risk of injuries. In case of a fall, the protective shell can separate from the internal part of the helmet meaning that the head would not be protected. 

A soft toy rucksack poses a risk of choking as it has an easily detachable small part (metal zip) that could be swallowed. The product has been withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers issued.

An extension cable has been withdrawn from the market after it was discovered that the earth contacts are not adequate meaning that it does not comply with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD).

It has been found that the weld joint between the handle bars and the frame of a children's tandem trike may fail putting the child/ren at risk of injuries. Consumers are instructed to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

A certain brand of nail polish has been banned from being sold and a withdrawal of the product from the market issued by authorities. The product contains 0.47% by weight of dibutylphthalate which is prohibited in cosmetic products as it poses a chemical risk.

The import of a style of sandals from China was rejected by the customs authorities as the sandals pose a risk of choking. The sandals have small decorative attachments that can be easily removed and pose a risk of choking, especially to children.

A company has found that their moon chair garden furniture poses a risk of injuries due to the weld between the hinge and seat frame having the possibility of failing. If the weld does fail, this could cause the chair to collapse while in use. The company has recalled the product.

Two styles of beaded curtains have been found to pose a risk of entrapment and strangulation when an adult or child plays with or runs through them. Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately.

Tea lights, sold in packs of 100, pose a fire and burn hazard to consumers as the flame on the tea light can become very high. The tea lights were sold between August 2010 and April 2011. Consumers should stop using the product and return it for a full refund.

A company has voluntarily withdrawn orange reflective vests for children as they do not offer enough reflection which can give the consumer a false sense of security. The product doesn't comply with either the personal protective equipment directive or the relevant European standard.  

A voluntary recall from consumers has been issued of a certain model of hair dryer as it poses a risk of fire. If the rotor in the product becomes jammed, this can cause the motor to overheat resulting in the plastic casing catching fire. Two incidents have been reported.

Bath Pearls, which come in packs of one hundred in shapes of different animals and fruits, are being sold without user instructions. They also resemble jelly sweets due to the size and smell of the product and could be swallowed by small children posing a risk of choking.

The product poses risks of electrical shock because under abnormal conditions of use live parts may become accessible. The product also does not comply with the low volt directory or the relevant European standard and has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

The product poses a chemical risk to people as it contains phenol which is prohibited in any cosmetic product as it can cause skin corrosion. The product does not comply with the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC (laws relating to cosmetic products).

It has been discovered that the weld between the bracket and the pin that holds barbell brackets in place on a weightlifting rack can break, causing the weights to fall, and posing an injury hazard to users. Users have been instructed to stop using the product.

A voluntary recall has been issued by the manufacturer of certain models of hinge boxes. The hinges on some of the roof boxes are faulty, which can result in them opening whilst the car is moving, causing a risk of injury to third parties.

A pull string toy dog has been found to be easily broken meaning small parts can be released which are easy for children to choke on. The string that pulls the dog is also quite thin which can result in cuts.

A passenger car, which was manufactured between March 2003 and Sept 2006 has been found to pose a risk of injuries as the airbag on the passenger side does not unfold correctly. Voluntary action has been taken by the manufacturer.

A soap bubbles toy from France, "Bulles De Savon" has been found to pose a microbiological risk as they contain 2.9x10 CFU/g of aerobic mesophilic bacteria. The product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

The inflatable lizard contains a white mouth piece which can easily detach itself and could then be swallowed, especially to small children, therefore posing a risk of choking. A voluntary withdrawal from the market by distributors has been issued at the request of retailers.

A product recall has been issued on specific models and serial numbers of backpack blowers in Canada. The product is equipped with fuel tanks that may leak gasoline which would then pose a fire hazard to the consumer. There have been no incidents or injuries reported to date.

A company has received 123 reports of incidents, including 9 injuries, involving certain models of their pogo stick. The product has been found to pose a risk of serious injury as the bottom of the pogo stick's frame tube can break or come apart and a pin holding the spring in place can break.

A set of toy cars have been found to pose a chemical risk due to the possible migration of 1000mg/kg of barium from the toy. Authorities have ordered a withdrawal of the product from the market as it does not comply with the Toys Directive and with the relevant European Standard EN 71 (safety requirements for toys).

Authorities have seized an electronic cigarette kit as it poses the risk of electric shock and a risk to health. The travel adaptor has manufacturing and design faults which cause the product to pose a risk of electric shock. A health risk is posed due to the high level of nicotine and the possibility of consumers, particularly children, having skin contact with the product or swallowing nicotine-soaked cartridges.

A toy laser gun originating in China does not comply with the Toys Directive and a sales ban has been ordered by the authorities. The product poses a risk of damage to sight because it incorporates a Class 3 laser which can burn the cornea.

A voluntary recall from consumers has been issued on a backpack with a respiratory device due to the risk it poses of suffocation. There is a possibility that the respiratory tubing can break at low temperatures thus posing a risk of suffocation.

Authorities have ordered that a certain model of gas barbecue is to be withdrawn from the market as it poses a risk of fire. There are sections of the burner where there is no flame and unburned gas leaks onto the ground. Injuries could occur if the unburned gas caught fire or exploded.

Silly string in Italy is being withdrawn from the market as it poses a risk of fire. The product is extremely flammable and should not, as it is currently, be marketed as a toy. Authorities have also ordered a recall from consumers.

A certain model of a batch of 3 frying pans is being voluntarily withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers has been issued by the importer. The product has been found to pose a risk of burns due to possible spillage of food because of its inappropriate shape and its lack of stability.

Imitation, decorative branches with authentic pine cones have been seized by authorities and a voluntary withdrawal from the market has been issued. The product poses a risk of burns and fire as it can ignite very quickly.

A certain model of motor vehicle has been found to pose a risk of injuries as oil contamination from the transfer box to the brake shoes affects the efficiency of the brakes. The contamination means that the parking brake may not hold the vehicle stationary on a gradient. The manufacturer is taking voluntary corrective action to remedy the problem.

A model of wall bracket has been found to pose an electric shock as the wires may get damaged and the basic insulated parts come into contact with accessible live parts. A withdrawal from the market has been issued and a recall from consumers ordered by the authorities.

A manufacturer of a passenger car has issued a voluntary recall from consumers due to the risk of injuries posed by the possibility of stub axles working themselves loose due to corrosion. This is caused by a possible defect in the coating of the front shock-absorber unit.

Due to a soft toy containing small parts with sharp points which can be easily detached and swallowed, the product has been voluntarily withdrawn from the market.

A sales ban has been issued by authorities on a lead casting set because of the chemical risk it poses due to the casting figures containing 87% lead. The product also poses a risk of burns during use due to the high level of lead.

A children's watch has been found to pose a chemical risk due to the watch battery current interacting with the nickel in the watch's stainless steel back. This interaction can cause skin irritation and/or a burning sensation to children allergic to nickel. Six reports have been received of children experiencing this allergic reaction.

Authorities have ordered a seizure on a lightening oil for skin as it has been found to pose a chemical risk. The product contains 6.3% of hydroquinone which can pose a threat to health if applied to a large area of skin over a long period of time.

Due to the discovery of five safety hazards that pose a risk of injuries, a company has issued a voluntary recall from consumers of their foldable scooter. Hazards include the handlebars not having sufficient strength and the size of the wheel being incorrect.

Liquid used for soap bubbles in a plastic soap bubble gun has been found to have a presence of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms which poses a microbiological risk. This, along with defects in the battery compartment has meant that authorities have ordered the product to be withdrawn from the market.

A motorcycle has been found to pose a risk of injuries due to the possibility of the engine stalling under certain conditions which could therefore lead to road accidents. The manufacturer has taken voluntary corrective action.

Three varieties of floodlight have been found to pose a risk of electric shock as some of the units in the floodlights are defective. It is possible for accessible metal parts on the floodlights to become live as there is a possibility of the insulation on the internal wiring being affected by the heat of the lamps.

A folding bicycle has been found to pose a risk of injuries because there is a possibility of the seat tube breaking in the area of the weld seam. The manufacturer has issued a voluntary recall from consumers. 

The discovery of the chemical methyldibromo glutaronitrile (a preservative in cosmetic products) in wet wipes has meant that authorities have issued a sales ban on the product and a recall from consumers. The product does not comply with the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC (laws of the Member States relating to cosmetic products).  

Toy magnets have been seized and a withdrawal from the market ordered by authorities as they pose a risk of injuries. The magnets have a magnetic flux greater that that specified in the Toys Directive and the relevant European Standard EN 71 (safety requirements for toys).

Recall Case Studies – Food Industry

Dried mushrooms have been withdrawn from the market due to the discovery that the product was infested with the larvae of insects. The product is not to be distributed.

Red, seedless grapes from Lebanon were found to have residues of the plant growth regulator ethephon by official controls on the market. Recipients of the product have been informed.

Two types of cheese are being recalled from consumers because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. 

Soybean meal received physical/chemical treatment after official controls on the market discovered the presence of the pathogenic micro-organism salmonella mbandaka.

Japanese buckwheat and wheat noodles have been rejected at German borders because the product contained too high a content of aluminium. The product is not to be distributed.

A recall from consumers has been issued on fish croquettes with garlic and herbs after a consumer made a complaint about finding metal pieces in the product.

Finnish border controls have rejected a consignment of energy drinks as they have too high a content of E 211 (sodium benzoate). The product is not to be distributed.

Border controls in Lithuania detained raisins originating from China as the product was found to have pesticide residues of the unauthorised substance dichlorvos. The product is to be destroyed.

A consignment of frozen amberjack has been detained at UK borders as the product was found to have undergone carbon monoxide treatment (1.5 mg/kg - ppm). The product is to be destroyed and is not to be distributed.

Gluten free baby porridge originating in Poland has been recalled from consumers due to the product containing undeclared gluten.

Long basmati rice has been withdrawn from the market after a company's own check found that the product has been genetically modified without authorisation.

A company is recalling certain lots of their chicken and vegetable pies after it was discovered that the product could contain bone fragments. The product has been recalled from consumers.

Jelly sweets are being recalled from consumers in the USA due to the possibility of the product containing foreign bodies (metal). There have been no reports of illness.

Chilled lamb legs from New Zealand have been rejected by UK border controls due to the product being exposed to poor or insufficient temperature controls. The product is to be destroyed.

Frozen trout fillets are being recalled from consumers after a company's own checks found the presence of the pathogenic micro-organism Listeria monocytogenes. The product is being recalled from consumers.

Official controls on the market have found that chicken flavour instant noodle soup contains too high content of aluminium. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A consignment of chilled peppermint was detained at Dutch border controls as 1 in 5 samples of the product had a presence of the pathogenic micro-organism Salmonella. The product is to be destroyed.

A product recall from consumers has been issued on chilled herring fillets in Canada. The product was sold without a best before date and may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.

Official controls on the market found the unauthorised use of the colour E 122 (azorubine) in noodles from Germany. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

German border controls have detained a consignment of groundnuts from India due to the presence of residues of the pesticide malathion on the product. The product is not to be distributed.

Frozen eel originating from France has been detained as official controls due to the suspicion that the product has been traded illegally.

Potato chips originating in Poland were found to contain undeclared sulphite by official controls on the market. The product is to be withdrawn from the market.

Official controls on the market in Italy have found that chilled swordfish originating in Spain contain a presence of the heavy metal mercury. The product is to be destroyed.

A company's own checks have found glass fragments in dressing sauces originating in France. The product has been recalled from consumers.

UK borders have rejected a consignment of paan leaves from Bangladesh because they found a presence of the pathogenic micro-organism Salmonella spp. The product is to be destroyed.

Cucumbers in Germany are to be destroyed due to the discovery of the pesticide fenamiphos in the product by official controls on the market.

­A consignment of rape seeds originating from the Ukraine has been rejected at Polish borders due to the presence of foreign bodies. The product was found to contain living and dead mites and is not to be distributed.

A consumer complaint has been received regarding undeclared wheat in a candy mix in Finland. The product has been returned to the dispatcher.

A company's own checks discovered the presence of Salmonella spp. in their dry sausages. The product is being recalled from consumers.

A product recall is being issued on dried seaweed strips in Australia because the product contains high levels of naturally occurring iodine.

Fresh mussels in France have been found to contain a high count of the pathogenic micro-organism Escherichia coli. Information is not yet available on the distribution of the product or the action to be taken.

The heavy metal cadmium was found in tiger prawns originating from Senegal by German border controls. The product is to be withdrawn from the market.

Dried prunes have been withdrawn from the market in France as they contain too high content of the preservative E 200 - sorbic acid.

Frozen oyster meat is being recalled because the product has been sampled and tested and found positive for norovirus genotypes I and II. There have been no reports of hospitalisations or deaths because of the product.

A consignment of rice bran extract has been detained at UK borders as the product had an improper import declaration. The product is not to be distributed.

Latvian border controls rejected tea from the Russian Federation as it had undergone unauthorised irradiation. The product is to be destroyed and is not to be distributed.

A company's own checks found the pathogenic micro-organism Listeria monocytogenes in one out of five samples of salmon. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Residues of the veterinary medicinal product nitrofuran (metabolite) furazolidone (AOZ) were found in salted pork intestines. The product has been recalled from consumers.

A consignment of rape seeds are being detained by border controls and the product is not to be distributed due to the product being infested with mites.

The heavy metal arsenic was found by UK border controls in edible gelatine originating in Pakistan. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A routine sample carried out by a retailer of salted, smoked herring found that the product was uneviscerated. The product has been voluntarily recalled.

Italian border controls have rejected a consignment of frozen squid as the product was subjected to unauthorised irradiation. The product is not to be distributed.

French border controls have detained a consignment of peanuts from China as they have an improper heath certificate. The product is not to be distributed.

A nationally distributed chicken soup has been voluntarily recalled by the manufacturer due to the product containing milk which is not declared on the label.

Chilled amberjacks from Japan were rejected at UK border controls as the product showed evidence of carbon monoxide treatments (0.8 mg/kg or ppm). The product is to be destroyed.

A recall from consumers has been issued on salami in Germany as official controls on the market found the product to be contaminated with Salmonella infantis.

1.05 mg/kg (ppm) of Mercury was found in fish (originating from Senegal) by German border controls.  Authorities have been informed.

Cheese spread has been recalled from consumers after a company's own checks discovered the product to be infested with moulds (non-pathogenic micro-organisms).

Several varieties of fruit juices are being recalled from consumers due to the possible presence of metal shavings. Consumers are advised not to consume the product but to return it for a full refund.

The heavy metal cadmium was found in horse meat by official controls on the market. The product has now been withdrawn from the market.

A company in Colorado, USA is voluntarily recalling cantaloupe melon because they have the potential to be contaminated with Lysteria monocytogenes. Consumers are being advised to destroy the product.

A recall from consumers has been issued on frozen rabbit haunches in Germany after official controls on the market discovered the product contained lead 74 mg/kg).

After carrying out their own checks, a company has issued a recall from consumers on various fruit and nut bars as they were discovered to be infested with moulds. 

A company's own checks on their frozen peppers found residues of the pesticide methamidophos (0.089 mg/kg - ppm). The product is to be destroyed.  

An unauthorised food additive was found in sour cabbage in the Czech Republic by official controls on the market. The product was withdrawn from the market.

Gilthead sea bream originating in Morocco has been found to contain 1.61 mg/kg of mercury. French border controls rejected the product and a withdrawal from the market has been issued.

A recall from consumers has been issued on an olive-almond spread in France as it contains the bacterium clostridium botulinum which can cause paralysis.

Chilled Tuna originating from the Maldives was rejected at UK borders as the product had been kept in a poor hygienic state. The product is to be destroyed.

UK border controls rejected and detained a consignment of canned corned beef because the product contained residues of the unauthorised veterinary medicinal product ivermectin. The product is not to be distributed.

Frozen cod fillets were rejected at Lithuanian borders because they were infested with dead Anisakis. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

UK border controls rejected noodles imported from China as the product was found to have a high content of aluminium. The product is to be destroyed.

The unauthorised colour Sudan 1 was found in adjika sauce by Latvian border controls (305 µg/kg - ppb) and the product is to be withdrawn from the market.

Different mineral waters are being recalled in Germany after a consumer complaint was received stating that the product contained glass fragments. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Calabash chalk is to be destroyed after official controls on the market found that the product contained 6.4 mg/kg  - ppm of arsenic and 2.7 mg/kg - ppm of lead.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) are warning public not to consume certain veal tongue and veal cheek meat as the products may be contaminated with Escherichia coli  O157:H7. The product is being voluntarily recalled.

Certain batch codes of cheddar cheese spread are being recalled from consumers as the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

A recall from consumers has been issued on chocolate sprinkles in Greece because the product contained traces of milk (casein presence). The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A grass jelly drink originating from Vietnam has been found to contain the unauthorised novel ingredient Mesona chinensis. The product is to be withdrawn from the market.

Unsalted butter is being withdrawn from the market due to the discovery of mineral oil in the product. The industrial contaminant was discovered by the company's own checks.

French border controls found pesticide residues in peppers originating from the Dominican Republic and the product was therefore rejected. The product is to be destroyed.

A consignment of yellow linseed has been officially detained after border controls discovered the product had an abnormal smell and the presence of living and dead mites. The product is not to be distributed.

Pork trims originating in Germany are being officially detained after a company's own checks found that the product contained plastic fragments.

A company has issued a recall one of their chocolate products as it is possible that it contains undeclared nut due to a production error.

Bottled natural mineral water is being recalled from consumers after official controls on the market found the presence of the pathogenic micro-organism Enterococcus.

German border controls rejected chilled fish originating from Morocco as poor or insufficient controls meant that the product was in a poor hygienic state. The product is to be destroyed.

A company in the USA is recalling two of its products due to the use of an egg wash that was undeclared on the product label. One allergic reaction has been reported.

A consignment of whole shrimp has been detained because they were an abnormal colour (green). The product was rejected by French border controls.

Official controls on the market discovered residues of the pesticide chlorpyriphos (1.2 mg/kg - ppm) in Pineapples from Ghana. The alert is for information purposes as there is no stock left of the product.

Eggs originating from Spain are to be destroyed as they contain the pathogenic micro-organism Salmonella Enteritidis. The product is to be destroyed.

Finnish border controls discovered that sulphite levels in green olives were too high (695 mg/kg - ppm). The consignment of the product has been officially detained and the product is not to be distributed.

Chocolate spread with orange flavour was found to have undeclared gluten by official controls on the market. The product is currently under custom seals and is not to be distributed.

The pathogenic micro-organism Lysteria monocytogenes was found in 2 out of 5 samples of chilled salmon fillets in official controls on the market in Poland. The product is not to be distributed.

Chilled fish originating from Morocco have been officially detained at Spanish borders. Poor temperature controls meant that there was a rupture of the cold chain and therefore the product is not to be distributed.

Frozen swordfish have been withdrawn from the market as border controls found that the product contained 1.702 mg/kg - ppm mercury.

Spanish border controls have detained a consignment of potatoes when they were discovered to be infested with non-pathogenic micro-organisms (mould). The product is not to be distributed.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a warning to people with allergies not to eat a certain brand of Sesame Pie as the product contains peanuts which are not declared on the label.

Wine enrichers and red and white grape juice are to be relabelled after official controls on the market discovered that they contained undeclared sulphite.

Official controls on the market found undeclared gluten in Baltic sardines originating from Latvia. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A consumer complaint has resulted in dried ham originating from Italy being withdrawn from the market. The product was infested with mites (Tyrophagus).

The pathogenic micro-organism Salmonella was found by official controls on the market in coriander in the United Kingdom. The product has been detained and a recall from consumers has been issued.

A company in the USA is recalling over 11,000 cases of frozen pizzas due to the possibility of small plastic fragments in an ingredient in the pizza crust. No consumer complaints have been reported.

Apricots originating from New Zealand are to be destroyed after German border controls found residues of the pesticide carbaryl on the product. The product is not to be distributed.

The larvae of insects were found in oranges originating from Spain by a company's own check. The product is to be destroyed.

Official controls on the market found Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) toxins in clams. The product is to be destroyed and is not to be distributed.

A kebab spice has been withdrawn from the market after official controls on the market found that the product contained the unauthorised colour Sudan 1. The product has also been recalled from consumers.

Glass fragments have been found in a snack mix imported from the Netherlands. The incident was alerted by a consumer complaint and a recall from consumers has been issued.

Official controls on the market discovered Diarrhetic  Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) toxins in mussels from France. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

UK borders have rejected honey imported from Chile. The consignment has been detained due to the product having altered organoleptic characteristics. A recall from consumers has been issued and the product is not to be distributed.

A consignment of cereal has been detained at Lithuanian borders as the product contains too high a content of aluminium (33.5 mg/kg). The product is not to be distributed.

Border control in Germany found a presence of Salmonella Chester in kangaroo meat imported from Australia. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A consumer complaint has alerted an incident of glass fragments in jars containing pickles (gherkins). The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A company is recalling certain batches of donuts as they may develop an uncharacteristic smell and it is possible that they become mouldy. The company has recalled the product after receiving consumer complaints of the unpleasant odour and temporary illness.

Mussels in brine have been withdrawn from the market in Malta as they were found to contain foreign bodies (bone). The alert was raised after a consumer complaint was made.

Official controls on the market in Portugal found that frozen mackerels had altered organoleptic characteristics (abnormal taste and smell). The product has been withdrawn from the market and is to be destroyed.

An allergen alert has been posted on the RASFF (European Alert System) website as official controls on the market found undeclared milk ingredient in cakes. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Lychee and mango flavoured fruit jellies have been found to pose a risk of choking as the mini jelly cups can become lodged in the throat, restricting air supply. The product is now permanently banned under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

The pathogenic micro-organism Listeria Monocytogenes has been found in raw-milk ewe cheese. A recall from consumers of the product has been issued.  

Pitted prunes from Chile have been withdrawn from the market because of a high level of food additives and flavourings. The content of E200 - sorbic acid was found to be too high.

The pathogenic micro-organism listeria monocytogenes was found in cheese imported from Belgium. The alert from France has lead to the product being withdrawn from the market.

A consignment of large white kidney beans from China has been released by the Polish border control due to being infested with non-pathogenic micro-organisms (mould). They were detained by officials and have subsequently undergone physical/chemical treatment.

A suspected foodborne outbreak of the pathogenic micro-organism Yersinia - enterocolitica in radicchio has been alerted by Norway. The pathogenic micro-organism can cause food poisoning and the product has been recalled from consumers.

Official controls on the market found undeclared milk ingredient in chocolate cake mixture imported from Hungary via Greece. A recall from consumers has been issued.

The product was rejected by UK border control and the consignment was detained due to the damaged/defective packaging. The poultry meat and poultry meat products from China will be subsequently destroyed.

Ground turmeric has been recalled in the USA due to elevated levels of lead. This poses a health risk as lead can accumulate in the body causing delays in both mental and physical development. Consumers are advised to return the product to the place of purchase.

The French border has rejected Hazelnut kernels from Turkey because they have improper health certificate(s). The product has not been distributed.

Corned Beef from Brazil has been rejected at the German border. The discovery of unauthorised residues of the veterinary medicinal product Ivermectin has resulted in the consignment being detained at the German border.

There has been an official alert on the market about the migration of benzophenone (1747 µg/kg - ppb) from printed boxes containing frozen vermicelli noodles originating from Belgium. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

A UK company is recalling certain brands and date codes of Paneer due to possible contamination with residue veterinary medicines. Point of sale notices are being displayed in stores informing customers that the product may have been contaminated with antibiotics. Customers have been advised not to consume the product and return it to the store from which they purchased it.

A selection of milk products are being voluntarily recalled by the manufacturer as the products may contain glass fragments. The public are being warned not to consume the products. There have so far been no reported incidents or injuries in connection with this recall.

Peanut Crisps were rejected at French borders due to an improper health certificate. The product has been held under customs seals due to this act of adulteration/fraud. The product is not to be distributed.

Canned, green, organic lentils have been withdrawn from the market in Germany after a company's own checks discovered the presence of the herbicide glyphosate. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

An ‘information for attention' notification has been placed on the European Rapid Alert System (RASFF) after official controls on the market found that a seafood cocktail contained undeclared gluten, soya, fish and molluscs. A recall from consumers has been issued.

A company's own checks found the unauthorised substance morpholine (used as a wax for coating fruit) on apples imported from the United States of America and Canada. A withdrawal of the product from the market has been issued and the product is to be destroyed.

A consumer complaint was made about baby food in Germany after it was found to have too high a content of the vitamins alpha-tocopherol (E), niacin (B3), vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C and the minerals iron, zinc, copper and iodine. The product has been detained by officials.

A certain batch of Coconut Water is being recalled in the United States of America due to the potential oxidation of the product that may permit the growth of mould. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall.

A company's own checks have discovered that cheese originating in Spain contains the pathogenic micro-organism lysteria monocytogenes. The product has been withdrawn from the market and a recall from consumers has been issued.

The norovirus, a pathogenic micro-organism that causes food poisoning, has been found on molluscs originating from the Netherlands, Ireland and the United Kingdom. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Salted hog casings have been rejected at Denmark's borders as residues of the veterinary medicinal product chloramphenicol were found on the product. The substance chloramphenicol is prohibited and the product is to be destroyed.

A warning has been issued on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website as breaded squid rings have been found to contain undeclared peanuts. The product is being recalled by the importer. There has been one reported allergic reaction associated with the consumption of this product.

Residues of the pesticide carbendazim (a systemic benzimidazole fungicide) on apples in Poland have been found by official controls on the market. As the product is ‘out of stock' this notification has been posted as ‘information for attention' on the RASSF (European Alert System) website.

A parasitic infestation with Anasakis has been found in frozen hake in Lithuania. Official controls on the market found 10-12 dead larvae of the parasitic roundworm in each fish. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Residues of the pesticide oxamyl were found on okra originating from Jordan. The discovery was made by official controls on the market and has been posted on the RASFF (Rapid Alert Systems) website for information purposes.

Official controls on the market found residues of the veterinary medicinal product nitrofuran (metabolite) furazolidone (AOZ) which is an antibacterial antibiotic. The product has been withdrawn from the market.

Dried figs in Poland were found to have the unsuitable organoleptic characteristic of a ‘chemical smell' as well as being infested with insects. These issues were notified via a customer complaint which resulted in the product being withdrawn from the market.

Palm oil was rejected at French borders when it was discovered to contain the unauthorised colour Sudan 4. The product is not to be distributed and is to be re-dispatched or destroyed.

A company in the USA has voluntarily recalled one lot of their strawberry banana smoothies as the product may contain undeclared peanut. The potential issue was discovered by tests carried out by the manufacturer.

Official controls on the market discovered chilled beans to be infested with mould. As a result of this finding the product is to be re-dispatched and is not to be distributed.

An unknown microbial contamination has caused a company to issue a consumer recall of their skinless sausages. The contamination leads to early spoilage of the product and customers are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Sea food cocktail imported from Vietnam was found to have been subjected to unauthorised irradiation. The product has been withdrawn from the market however distribution is still possible.

A company's own checks found that one of their products, minced turkey meat, was contaminated with the pathogenic micro-organism Salmonella. The product has been withdrawn from the market. 

Spinach leaves imported from Belgium have been withdrawn from the market after official controls on the market found the product to contain the heavy metal, cadmium. 

A consumer complaint about undeclared egg that was found in salad mayonnaise that was labelled as ‘without egg' has resulted in the product being withdrawn from the market.  

Instant noodles were rejected at the Danish borders after the product was found to contain a high content of aluminium. The product is to be re-dispatched or destroyed and is not to be distributed.

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