How to Lodge a Complaint About Food Products

Last Updated: November 11, 2021

Food-related issues endanger you and other customers. Measures should be taken to ensure that the relevant parties are aware of them. The following is a step-by-step guide for filing a complaint about food products.

Steps

1
Retain the uneaten portion of the food.
- Store it in a refrigerator or freezer.
- It may be required if the company requests to see it.
2
Determine the source of the problem.
- Make sure you did not cause the problem. For example, if you are complaining about a dairy product, be sure that you did not leave it outside for a long time.
- Decide whether it was a problem caused by the processor or the vendor.
3
Return the uneaten portion of the food to the vendor (optional).
- If the food was left on the vendor's shelf with damaged packaging or the expiration date passed before you purchased it, the vendor is the source of the problem.
- Take your uneaten food and receipt of purchase with you.
- Ask to speak to the manager or the supervisor of the department where you purchased the food.
- Explain the problem.
- Mention that the expiration date passed prior to your purchase, if applicable.
- Obtain a refund or exchange of your purchase.
4
Contact the processor (optional).
- If the food's original packaging was in tact at the time you opened it and the expiration date has not passed, the processor is the source of the problem.
- If your food has a label, check for a telephone number or website. Call the number and attempt to have the customer service representative resolve your issue or contact the company via it's website.
- If the food came from a restaurant or other source, call or visit that source and allow them the opportunity to correct the problem.
5
Write a letter to the appropriate company.
- Do this if the issue has not yet been resolved.
- The letter should state a description of the product, the size purchased, the date and location of the purchase, any code marks (such as a bar code), a description of the problem, your expectations for resolution of the problem, and your contact information.
- Allow the company time to receive, review, and respond to the letter.
6
Contact a third party for assistance.
- Do this if your issue has not yet been resolved.
- Write a letter to or call a consumer-protection group or government agency.

Warnings

Eating damaged food products can be damaging to your health. If you believe this effected more than just the product that you purchased, it is crucial you report the issue.

Thanks!
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0