A trending syndrome known as consumer recall fatigue has many worried that people are so overwhelmed by the increase in product recalls that they begin to ignore them resulting in more injuries.
There are approximately 2,363 recalls reported annually. These recalls include pharmaceutical, medical, food, automobile and a variety of other consumer products. In fact, so many recalls exist that the government has created a website for consumers called Recalls.gov.
Why are so many products being recalled?
Well, there are various opinions on this, but some argue it is manufacturer complacency. Others believe that there are now more thorough testing methods by the FDA, DOA and CPSC. An increase in social media that spreads the work regarding the recalls has also been given credit.
In 2012, there were around 2300 product recalls (6 per day). This was a 14% increase from 2010. Stericycle, a company that handles recalls for businesses, also states that there has been a major recall increase in organic foods; in fact, 7% of all foods recalled were organic.
Are people becoming numb and complacent to all of the product recalls and suffering from “recall fatigue?”
Regulators are finding it hard to get the word out regarding the many number of recalls. A 2009 Rutgers study found that 12% of Americans ate recalled food knowingly and 40% never checked to see what recalled products may be in their home.
It has been predicted that the number of product recalls will continue to rise due to the better testing methods and more regulations.
Have you or one of your loved ones suffered a personal injury due to a recalled product or food item? You may be in need of legal representation to help you retain the compensation that you deserve.