Supplement Recalls: What They Mean and How to Check

Our database tracks 573 FDA supplement recalls. Here's what they mean, why they happen, and how to check if your supplement is affected.

How Supplement Recalls Work

Unlike drug recalls, most supplement recalls are voluntary. The FDA identifies a problem, notifies the company, and the company agrees to pull the product. The FDA can also seek court orders for mandatory recalls, but this is rare.

Recalls are classified by severity:

Class I — Serious

"Reasonable probability that use of the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death." These are the most alarming. Common triggers:

• Undeclared pharmaceutical drugs (hidden Viagra, steroids, stimulants)
• Serious contamination (Salmonella, hepatitis-causing substances)
• Products linked to hospitalizations or deaths

Class II — Moderate

"May cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences." Examples:

• Undeclared allergens (milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts)
• Incorrect dosage that could cause adverse effects
• Moderate contamination

Class III — Minor

"Not likely to cause adverse health consequences." Examples:

• Minor labeling errors
• Products that don't meet quality specifications but aren't dangerous

The Most Common Reasons for Recalls

Based on our analysis of 573 FDA supplement recalls:

1. Undeclared ingredients — The #1 reason. Usually hidden drugs in sexual enhancement, weight loss, or bodybuilding supplements.
2. Contamination — Microbial (Salmonella, Listeria) or chemical (heavy metals, solvents).
3. Mislabeling — Product doesn't match what's on the label.
4. Undeclared allergens — Common allergens not listed on the label.
5. Adulteration — Products containing substances not permitted in supplements.

How to Check If Your Supplement Was Recalled

1. Search SupplementCheck — Our brand database shows recall counts and details for every brand we track.
2. FDA Recalls Page — FDA Safety Alerts lists all active recalls.
3. openFDA API — Searchable database of all food and supplement enforcement actions.
4. Sign up for FDA alerts — Get email notifications for new recalls.

What to Do If Your Supplement Is Recalled

1. Stop taking it immediately
2. Check the specific lot number — Not all batches may be affected. The recall notice will list specific lot numbers.
3. Return for a refund — Most retailers will accept returns for recalled products.
4. Report adverse effects — If you've experienced any health issues, report to the FDA Safety Reporting Portal.
5. See a doctor — If you've been taking a product with undeclared pharmaceutical drugs, consult your healthcare provider.

Brands With Recall History

Having a recall on record doesn't necessarily mean a brand is currently dangerous — many companies improve their practices after a recall. But it's important information for making informed choices.

Check any brand's complete FDA history including recalls, warning letters, and adverse events on our brand search page.