Consumer Product Recalls: The United States Experience and Some International Implications

Abstract

Much of the legal literature on consumer products focuses on product safety and product liability issues, rather than on the mechanics of the product recall process itself. This paper redresses this shortcoming by examining the product recall processes in both the United States and, by way of contrast, the European Union. We observe the ways in which these recall processes are substantially similar and provide practical observations as to why multinational companies should look at recalls from the perspective of preserving their global reputation. Finally, we offer some suggestions to improve the recall process and better protect consumers.