Follow these steps to report a foreign object in food
1. Leave the object where it was found in the food. It is helpful to the investigation to see where it is found.
2. Take photos (without removing the foreign object if possible):
- One with the foreign object near a ruler so we can get an idea of the size of the object.
- Others showing the front, back, and date and batch marking of the product and packaging.
3. Store the foreign object in a secure place. We may retrieve it from you to aid our investigation.
- If the object is still in the food, store the food in a container with a lid and refrigerate if it is a chilled food.
- If the object has been removed from the food, store the object in a container with a lid.
4. Complete the online form and we will contact you after reviewing the information.
Commonly mistaken foreign objects
Before you complete this form, ensure it's not one of the commonly mistaken foreign objects, such as naturally occuring crystals, or burnt food.
Some crystals may form naturally in food, which can easily be mistaken for pieces of broken glass, such as:
- struvite crystals in canned seafood
- tartrate crystals in wine.
These crystals are quality issues of food rather than a safety issue, whereas glass is considered a high food safety risk and will be prioritised and treated accordingly.
Food residues or part of the ingredients may become hard pieces due to the cooking process, and may be mistaken for plastic. Contact the food business if you are not sure.
