Product recalls surge in 2024, reaching six-year high

INDIANA – According to data analyzed by Omega Law Group, product recalls across multiple industries reached a six-year high in 2024, with over 3,000 recalls affecting consumer goods, automotive products, food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

Medical devices recorded the highest recall rate, with issues ranging from quality control problems to device malfunctions in items such as implants, blood pumps, and tissue markers. The defects posed serious risks to patient safety, potentially leading to infections and critical device failures.

Food safety emerged as a pressing concern, with FDA recalls increasing by more than 25% compared to 2023. Significant issues included 506 undeclared allergens and bacterial contamination from pathogens like listeria, E. coli, and salmonella. Commonly affected items included snacks, leafy greens, deli meats, and cheeses.

Tesla led manufacturers with over 5 million vehicles recalled in the automotive sector. While recall incidents decreased slightly, the volume of affected units rose dramatically, with electrical system defects and airbag malfunctions being the primary concerns. Many of the most recalled vehicles from 2024 remain on the road, emphasizing the importance of timely repairs.

Consumer goods, particularly children’s toys, sleepwear, and household appliances, saw notable increases in 322 recalls due to choking hazards, lead contamination, and unsafe chemicals. These defects led to record-breaking fines and penalties for manufacturers. Furniture tip-overs and small kitchen appliances also posed significant risks for burns and lacerations.

The pharmaceutical industry experienced a sharp rise in recalls, with 975 incidents affecting over 283 million units due to malfunctions and sterility issues, potentially leading to infections and device failures, mainly attributed to sterility concerns and labeling errors. Commonly recalled drugs included losartan and ibuprofen, with contamination issues potentially leading to allergic reactions and organ damage.

Regularly check trusted resources such as Recalls.gov and the FDA’s Recall Database to stay informed about product recalls. These tools offer real-time updates and detailed instructions for managing recalled products.