What Is a Cosmetic Recall?
A recall is when a cosmetic distributor and/or manufacturer requests that a product be removed from the market. Recalls are based on either adulteration or misbranding. In the case of adulterations where there is a potential for harm to the consumer recalls are strongly recommended. Misbranding is a case-by-case situation for each manufacturer and/or distributor. Some manufacturers and/or distributors do not find that certain misbranded statements rise to the level to cause potential harm to the consumer and therefore do not see the need for a recall.
Can FDA Mandate a Recall?
FDA has no authority under the Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act to order a recall of a cosmetic. However, when FDA feels there is a violation of the laws FDA can request that manufacturers, private labelers, and/or distributors recall a product. Many companies feel obligated to comply with FDA’s request for recall because of the potential for future retaliation by FDA, founded or unfounded.
What Is the Procedure to Conduct a Recall?
Recalls are sometimes determined through internal investigations, external complaints, or FDA inspections. The following are the procedures to follow:
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Determine whether or not the “issue” rises to the level of a recall.
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Conduct an investigation, documenting everything, including a root cause analysis if possible.
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Prepare a recall submission notification to your local FDA District Recall Coordinator including:
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Production Information
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Codes (Product Identification numbers)
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Recalling Firm
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Manufacturer
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Firm Responsible for the Violation/Problem
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Reason for Recall
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Health Hazard Assessment
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Volume of Recalled Product
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Distribution Pattern
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Recall Strategy
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Prepare Public Notification
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Press Release
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Recall letters to supply chain
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Conduct an evaluation of the Recall
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Conduct an effectiveness of the recall assessment
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Submit recall status reports on a monthly basis
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Finalize and submit a root cause analysis
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Finalize and submit a corrective action plan
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Conduct an analysis for termination of recall
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Terminate recall
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