How to Handle a Pork Recall: Your Safety Guide

Check If Your Pork Is Affected by a Recall

The USDA FSIS maintains a searchable database of all active recalls on fsis.usda.gov/recalls. To determine if your pork is affected, locate the UPC code (barcode) and lot or case code on your packaging—these are typically printed on the back or side. Compare these numbers against the recall notice details, including the product name, establishment number (EST), and distribution dates. Panko Alerts monitors FSIS recalls in real-time and can notify you immediately when pork recalls matching your household preferences are issued, eliminating the need to manually check the USDA website.

Safely Return or Dispose of Recalled Pork

If your pork matches a recall notice, do not consume it. Contact the retailer or manufacturer directly to request a refund or replacement—most will honor recalls without requiring a receipt. Alternatively, you can dispose of the product by sealing it in a leak-proof bag and placing it in your regular household trash, or by returning it to the store where you purchased it. Some recalls instruct consumers to cook the product to a safe internal temperature; follow these specific instructions only if explicitly stated in the FSIS recall announcement. Never donate recalled pork to food banks or give it to others.

If You've Already Consumed Recalled Pork

Symptoms of foodborne illness typically appear 1–7 days after eating contaminated pork, depending on the pathogen, and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. If you develop these symptoms after consuming recalled pork, contact your healthcare provider or local health department immediately and mention the specific recall. Report your illness to the FDA's MedWatch program (fda.gov/medwatch) or contact your state's health department to help authorities track outbreak patterns and protect others. Keep the product packaging as evidence if possible, and note the date you consumed the product to assist investigators.

Get Real-Time Pork Recall Alerts — Start Free Trial Today

Real-time food safety alerts from 25+ government sources. AI-scored by urgency. Less than one bad meal a month — $4.99/mo.