Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) recently released data on food recalls throughout Australia and New Zealand in 2021, as well as data on recall trends over the last decade. A total of 80 recalls were conducted in 2021, with almost half (38) due to undeclared allergens. Other reasons for recalls included microbial contamination (19), foreign matter (5), and incorrect labeling (3). In total, recalls decreased from 109 in 2020 to 80 in 2021.
FSANZ accredits the countries’ improved detection of food safety hazards to broader regulatory oversight, improved industry self-monitoring, and greater consumer vigilance. FSANZ also believes that continued advancement in food technology, analytical testing, and traceability will influence the number of food recalls in the future.