Denver Food Recall Response Checklist for Food Service Operators

Immediate Actions: First 24 Hours

The moment you learn of a recall affecting your inventory, immediately segregate affected products from service—do not throw them away yet. Contact your food supplier for written confirmation of which lot codes or date ranges are impacted, as CDPHE inspectors will verify this documentation. Notify your manager and kitchen staff verbally and in writing so they understand the scope; common violations occur when line staff unknowingly serve recalled items. Document the time you received the recall notice and begin a log of all actions taken. Alert your POS system administrators to disable affected products from ordering menus to prevent accidental use.

Denver Health Department Compliance Steps

Within 24–48 hours, contact Denver Public Health (part of the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment) at 303-602-3500 to report the recall and your response actions. CDPHE and Denver Health inspectors will want to see: (1) written recall notice from supplier or FDA/USDA, (2) inventory documentation showing quantity received and date, (3) list of all dishes/meals prepared with recalled ingredients in the past 7–30 days, and (4) customer service records if applicable. Maintain a trace-back log linking recalled ingredients to specific prep times and menu items served. Colorado Rule 12.702.3 requires you to document corrective actions in writing within one business day of identifying the hazard.

Common Inspection Violations to Avoid

Health inspectors in Denver frequently cite operators for: failing to remove recalled products from service immediately, not documenting the supplier notification or lot codes, disposing of recalled items without evidence (photos/receipts), and serving dishes containing recalled ingredients after awareness. Do not attempt to 'use up' recalled stock; CDPHE views this as a critical violation. Also avoid incomplete staff retraining—inspectors will ask random staff members about the recall and your corrective plan. Keep all written communications (emails, texts, recall notices) in a dedicated folder for inspection review. Post a notice in preparation areas identifying which items are under recall so staff cannot claim ignorance.

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