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Jan 16, 2026 - Foods

MetallicForeignBodiesinWhiteGoods:RecallShowsRisksOfComplexSupplyChains

Metallic foreign bodies in white goods continue to pose a serious risk to food safety. A recent recall illustrates how significantly disruptions in complex supply chains can impact—and why preventive quality assurance is indispensable.

The increasing division of labor in the retail food sector (RFS) brings cost advantages through specialization and synergies. However, it also increases vulnerability to systemic risks. Disruptions or errors at one point in the supply chain can quickly propagate and affect several market participants simultaneously. This so-called ripple effect was described years ago by various experts and has been highlighted by, among others, the ALLIANZ Group as a relevant risk for global supply chains.

A recent example is an incident from January 9, 2026: At the same time, two well-known discount retailers publicly recalled various ice cream preparations. In both cases, an identical manufacturer's letter was attached, issued by a Dutch company with approximately 100 years of history. The reason for the recalls was the potential contamination with metallic foreign bodies in the so-called white goods.

Metallic foreign bodies are among the classic hazards in food production. In principle, they can be detected and eliminated with high safety through the use of appropriate foreign body detectors—such as metal or X-ray detectors. Whether and in what form corresponding control systems were used in this specific case is not publicly known.

However, the incident clearly shows: Technical measures alone are not enough. A holistic approach to food safety is crucial, one that combines technical controls, organizational measures, and well-trained staff. An effective and regularly reviewed HACCP system forms the foundation to detect and minimize risks at an early stage.

The BAV Institute recommends that companies regularly review their processes and seek early advice on robust HACCP systems. Equally important is the continuous training of employees to safely manage hazards such as metallic foreign bodies in white goods. Our experts support you in a practical and competent manner.

Sources and further information:

• Public recall announcement on lebensmittelwarnung.de
• Ivanov, D. (2023): Introduction to Supply Chain Resilience. Management, Modeling, Technology, Springer International Publishing