Kroger endorsing online recall service

CINCINNATI Kroger announced that it is endorsing the Rapid Recall Exchange, an online service that standardizes and accelerates food and product recalls and withdrawals. Kroger said it will be the first national retail chain to encourage its suppliers to subscribe to this industry-leading program.

The Rapid Recall Exchange, developed by GS1 US in collaboration with the Food Marketing Institute and Grocery Manufacturers Association, is the industry's only online standardized recall notification system. Using consistent forms and processes, retailers receive the same complete information, including product images and handling instructions, when a recall is issued.

"Using Rapid Recall Exchange provides Kroger with timely and accurate recall data. The need for speed is crucial in recall situations and this will help us be more efficient in removing recalled product from our shelves and communicating with our customers about recalls," said Dr. Payton Pruett, VP corporate food safety for Kroger.

Kroger said it is asking all suppliers to subscribe by July 1. According to the retailer, by using the Rapid Recall Exchange, suppliers can  provide all critical recall information in one communication -- 24 hours a day, seven days a week -- quickly alerting retailers. This enables retailers like Kroger to quickly remove recalled products and reach out to customers about recalls.