[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 21, Volume 1] [Revised as of April 1, 2003] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 21CFR7.59] [Page 83-84] TITLE 21--FOOD AND DRUGS CHAPTER I--FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES PART 7--ENFORCEMENT POLICY--Table of Contents Subpart C--Recalls (Including Product Corrections)--Guidance on Policy, Procedures, and Industry Responsibilities Sec. 7.59 General industry guidance. A recall can be disruptive of a firm's operation and business, but there are several steps a prudent firm can take in advance to minimize this disruptive effect. Notwithstanding similar specific requirements for certain products in other parts of this chapter, the following is provided by the Food and Drug Administration as guidance for a firm's consideration: (a) Prepare and maintain a current written contingency plan for use in initiating and effecting a recall in accordance with Secs. 7.40 through 7.49, 7.53, and 7.55. (b) Use sufficient coding of regulated products to make possible positive lot identification and to facilitate effective recall of all violative lots. [[Page 84]] (c) Maintain such product distribution records as are necessary to facilitate location of products that are being recalled. Such records should be maintained for a period of time that exceeds the shelf life and expected use of the product and is at least the length of time specified in other applicable regulations concerning records retention. Subpart D [Reserved]