Houston Food Recall Response Checklist for Operators

Immediate Response & Documentation (First 24 Hours)

Upon notification of a recall, immediately stop using and serving the affected product, then document the date, time, and source of recall notification. Contact your local Houston Health Department (part of the Harris County Public Health division) and notify your manager and food safety coordinator. Verify the recalled product's lot codes, expiration dates, and quantity in your facility against the FDA or FSIS recall notice—be specific in writing. Inspectors will request this documentation during follow-up, so maintain a dated incident log that includes who was notified, when, and what actions were taken. Texas HHSC Rule §193.1 requires food service operators to verify product identity and isolate recalled items immediately.

Local Houston Compliance & Inspection Readiness

Houston establishments must report significant recalls to the Health Department within the timeframe specified in the recall notice (typically 24-48 hours for high-risk items). Prepare written evidence showing: (1) the date the recalled product was removed from service, (2) photos or inventory records of isolation/disposal, and (3) a list of all customers potentially affected if applicable. The Harris County Health Department inspectors focus on verification that your traceability system identified affected items and that no product was served after recall announcement. Texas food code mandates you maintain supplier contact information and product documentation for at least two years—ensure these records are accessible during inspection to demonstrate rapid source identification.

Customer Notification, Disposal, & Prevention of Common Violations

If the recall poses a potential health hazard and your facility served the product, you may be required to notify customers through the Health Department's guidance; follow their specific protocol rather than acting unilaterally. Dispose of recalled products according to FDA and HHSC directives—do not donate, redistribute, or attempt to salvage without explicit written approval. Common violations inspectors cite include: failing to isolate recalled stock promptly, insufficient records of notification or disposal, not conducting supplier verification, and serving recalled items after notice. Implement a recall procedure checklist in your facility and train staff quarterly; Houston inspectors will ask random staff members about recall protocols. Document all training sessions with attendance logs and dates to demonstrate due diligence if an inspection occurs.

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