Don’t Fall Victim to Product Labeling Errors

By Mike Rozembajgier

Products can be recalled for all sorts of reasons, but one reason for withdrawals that in most cases can be easily prevented is product labeling errors.

The product label is often the only connection between a consumer and a manufacturer. Information on the label includes ingredients and safety warnings, and if a label is misprinted, that communication error often results in a Class III recall.

There are two primary types of labeling errors: an incorrect label on an item, and a label content mistake. Both are extremely important to keep in mind, since even relatively minor labeling errors have led to a significant number of recalls in recent years.

Withdrawing a product because of a labeling error can be frustrating and costly. But labeling errors can be prevented, if you are diligent about double and triple checking all your labels for redundancy, unclear language, ands incorrect or omitted statements.  Make sure that your company spends time validating and verifying the facts of the label, as well as the product.  Failing to do so can lead to an expensive recall, risk to public safety, and a loss of customer loyalty.

Even if you have all reasonable safety precautions in place, you should still have a recall plan prepared and ready to go in case something goes wrong and you have to initiate a recall. Recall blueprints, reverse logistics and customer notification systems should be carefully developed and frequently practiced. The effectiveness of your recall process can have a lasting impact on your brand. Be well prepared will help make the recall process goes as smoothly as possible.

But the best recall is one that never has to happen at all. Pay careful attention to labeling, both the development of the language and the actual labeling of products, but also be prepared should anything go wrong.

Stericycle ExpertRECALL™ is the industry leader in recall logistics and regulatory compliance for consumer product, pharmaceutical, medical device, juvenile product, and food and beverage recalls. ExpertRECALL’s professionals are experts in recall management who can help you streamline the entire product recall process.