Ate a recalled food? What to do, step by step

Short answer: stop eating it, check the exact product against the official notice, and call your doctor if you or your child feel sick. Get emergency care for severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or swallowing.

1. Stop eating it

Put it somewhere children and pets can't reach while you check the details.

2. Check that your package really matches

Recalls often cover only certain sizes, lot codes or dates. Compare the brand, product name, size, UPC, lot code and "best by" or "use by" date on your package with the official notice.

3. Do what the notice says

Many notices say to return the product for a refund; some say to throw it away. If you throw it away, seal it in a bag so people and animals can't get to it.

4. Clean up after bacteria recalls

If the recall is for bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria or E. coli, wash containers, cutting boards, fridge shelves and counters the food touched with hot, soapy water.

5. Watch for symptoms

Each notice lists the symptoms to watch for. If you feel sick, call your doctor and tell them which product you ate. For severe symptoms, get emergency care.

6. Report a problem

For most foods, report illness or a problem to FDA through the Safety Reporting Portal. For meat, poultry and egg products, call USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-674-6854.

Who issues food recalls?

FDA oversees most foods, including produce, snacks, seafood, spices and supplements. USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service oversees meat, poultry and processed egg products. Official lists: FDA recalls and USDA FSIS recalls.