The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issues food recalls in the event that there is a public safety hazard.  Recalls could be a result of physical, chemical or biological hazards associated with foods for human consumption.  These hazards could be foreign objects such as plastic or metal fragments (physical), cleaning solution contamination (chemical), or a situation such as E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella bacteria contamination (biological).  The majority of recalls are instituted by the companies or businesses involved in their sale, distribution or production voluntarily to ensure that all product is recalled effectively and consumer health and safety is preserved.  The Canadian Food Inspection Agency works with the responsible parties to ensure that the recall is effective, and advises the general public about the recall.

CPMA works with CFIA in the event of a recall by informing members who may be impacted by the recall, and providing industry input in recovery efforts.  To aid its members further, CPMA is preparing a recall procedures manual for use in ensuring that the proper steps are taken for the most effective recall resolution.