What to Do If Your Turkey Is Recalled

Check If Your Turkey Is Part of the Recall

Start by locating the product's lot number, establishment number, and UPC code on the packaging or receipt. Cross-reference these details against the official recall notice on FSIS.usda.gov or FDA.gov, where all poultry recalls are published with specific dates, lot codes, and affected products. If you've thrown away the packaging, check your receipt or contact the retailer with the purchase date and product description. Most recalls specify geographic regions, production dates, or package sizes, so confirm all details match before assuming your turkey is safe.

Safely Dispose of or Return Recalled Turkey

Do not eat recalled turkey under any circumstances, even if it looks or smells normal—pathogens are invisible and heat-cooking may not eliminate all risks depending on the pathogen. If the product is unopened, return it to the store where you purchased it for a full refund or replacement; bring your receipt and the original packaging if possible. If you've already opened it, place it in a sealed bag, then into another sealed bag, and dispose of it in your regular trash to prevent cross-contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly, clean any surfaces or utensils that contacted the raw or cooked turkey with hot soapy water, and sanitize cutting boards with a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon per gallon of water).

What If You Already Ate It? Report Health Issues

If you consumed recalled turkey before learning of the recall, monitor yourself and household members for symptoms of foodborne illness: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever typically appear 24–72 hours after exposure, though timing varies by pathogen. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe, bloody, or prolonged, or if anyone in your household is very young, elderly, or immunocompromised. Report your illness to your local health department or call the FDA's consumer complaint hotline at 1-888-SAFEFOOD (1-888-723-3366), providing your lot number, purchase date, and symptoms; FSIS also accepts reports via FoodComplaint.fdasis.usda.gov. These reports help agencies track outbreaks and prevent future illnesses.

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