News of product recalls can easily send people in Toms River into a panic, particular when those recalls involve products such as food items or medications. The common school of thought is that if an item is being recalled, it is extremely dangerous and those that have used or consumed it are at risk of serious injury (or worse). Yet many may be surprised at just how common recalls can be (indeed, per information shared by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, 9199 products were recalled by that agency in 2017 alone). Understanding the details of a product recall might help people avoid suffering undue stress from it.
The FDA breaks down product recalls into three classifications according to their severity. These are:
- Classification I: Products whose use or exposure to presents a reasonable possibility of serious adverse health consequences or death
- Classification II: Products for which the probability of serious injury or death from their use or exposure is remote, but for which the possibility of users experiencing temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences is present
- Classification III: Products whose use or exposure to is unlikely to result in any adverse health consequences
According to FDA data, a majority of recalls fall into Classification II. Thus, while it is unlikely that a recalled product will cause serious harm, all recalls should be treated seriously. People possessing recalled products should stop using them immediately and follow the instructions that accompany the recall detailing how to safely return or dispose of them.
It is important to remember that even with a recall in place, manufacturers still assume liability for any damages their products cause. This means one can still seek legal action if they or a loved one are injured by a recalled product.