number of recalls increased by 5 percent in 2025

In 2025, the number of product recalls rose again. By five percent, to be exact. Microbiological contamination and allergens in particular left their mark on 2025, according to the international analysis ‘Recalls: A Review of 2025’ by BRCGS.

The organization examined data from Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Listeria, Salmonella, and STEC once again took center stage. At the same time, recalls linked to allergens increased in several countries.

Listeria and Salmonella cause the greatest impact

Across all countries reviewed, Listeria monocytogenes was the leading cause of microbiological recalls. In the United States, contamination of supplement shakes resulted in 42 illnesses and 14 deaths. Those are significant figures.

Ready-to-eat products appeared frequently in the reports. Think sandwiches and pasta meals. Europe also saw Listeria cases. Ireland reported an outbreak linked to ready-to-heat meals. In France, soft cheeses made from pasteurized cow’s and goat’s milk were involved. Denmark connected fish cakes from a single producer to illnesses among elderly consumers.

Salmonella accounted for the highest number of outbreaks worldwide. Eggs, cucumbers, pistachio products, and sprouts were repeatedly identified. In Spain, contamination through tortillas led to 162 reported illnesses. Small tomatoes caused a total of 437 infections across 17 European countries between 2023 and 2025.

Allergens the leading reason for recall

Undeclared allergens proved to be the primary reason for recalls in the UK, the US, and Australia. Milk remained the most frequently reported allergen. In Germany, microbiological causes ranked highest, followed by chemical contamination.

Many allergen-related recalls stemmed from labeling errors or incorrectly packed products. Issues often arise during production or packaging changeovers. Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and snacks represented a substantial product category. Prepared foods also ranked high.

Overall, the total number of recalls across the four countries reviewed increased by five percent compared to 2024.

Brcgs.com