How to Find Product Codes Listed on a Recall

New fear unlocked: you see a food recall, and it’s actually a product that you regularly buy and keep stored in your kitchen. But how do you know if your specific item is affected? Sure, there’s a list of information to look for on the packaging, but what do these codes mean, and where do you even find them?

Here, we’re breaking down what exactly each product code means, including UPC, lot codes and establishment numbers. That way, you know where to look if you ever have to track down a number printed on a product’s packaging—and you know what to do if you have a recalled item in your kitchen.

What Is a UPC?

UPC stands for universal product code. It’s a 12-digit code that’s printed on the packaging of a product, and everything on the shelves has a unique UPC to help identify each product. This means that this is the most efficient way to tell if the item you have on hand has been recalled, as the UPC information is commonly shared for recalled products.

To find the UPC, simply look underneath the bar code on the packaging. The numbers printed below the bar code make up the UPC. While the spacing of the numbers on the code may vary from what’s published on the recall, if the numbers match the recalled UPC, your food is affected.

Where to Find a Lot Code

Lot codes are another type of code printed on food packaging, as it specifies exactly which batch the food or product was from in the manufacturing process. Lot codes are typically numerical and are shorter than a UPC, but they can be printed anywhere on the packaging. Usually, you can find the lot code near the product’s bar code or its best-by date. You can also check the recall to see if it gives more information on where to find the identifier.

More Details to Check For

In recalls, best-by or use-by dates are commonly provided. Even if the affected date has passed, be sure to check your freezer or refrigerator for recalled items. If your potentially impacted product is meat or cheese, the recall may also list affected establishment numbers, which are printed by the USDA’s mark of inspection on the packaging.

Specific retailers and states may be listed on the announcement, but recalls often expand to include a wider range of products. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to call your local place of purchase to see if the product you have is recalled. Oftentimes, grocery chains will send shoppers letters to notify them that they have purchased a recalled item.

What to Do If Your Food Is Recalled

If all of the recall information matches your impacted product, there are a few things you should do. First, remove the product from your home. This could mean disposing of the product or returning it to your place of purchase for a possible replacement or refund.

If you’re seeking a refund but don’t feel comfortable transporting a recalled food item, especially if it is connected to a foodborne illness outbreak, that is understandable. Contact your place of purchase for an alternative solution. It may be best to take pictures of the affected product or have the receipt available for proof of purchase. 

Once the recalled item is gone, you should disinfect any surfaces that the food may have touched if it was recalled for undeclared allergens or for foodborne bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes or E. coli. This means cleaning all countertops, shelves and refrigerator surfaces as well as cleaning or disposing of any food that the product may have touched. These bacteria can quickly spread to other food, surfaces and people, so this step is crucial. If you are experiencing any symptoms of foodborne illness like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or stomach cramps, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

For questions or concerns about a specific recalled product, it’s best to contact the number or email address provided on the recall announcement, or call the Food and Drug Administration at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332). It’s important to stay up to date on the latest food recalls, and EatingWell is adamant in providing the latest information. You can find all of our recently reported food recalls here.