Why an all-time high in recalls is both good and bad news

The United States hit an all-time record high last year for recalls. More than a billion items were recalled in 2022.

From cars and trucks to food and appliances, the recall list keeps getting longer and longer.

From dodgy designs to dangerous ingredients, product safety experts agree there are more recalls, but it is because we are getting better at catching problems before they become deadly.

Of the one billion recalls last year, how do you know if something in your freezer, home, or garage could be life-threatening?

Check out USA Today’s recalls database. It updates every week with the latest recalls, including consumer products, food, drugs, and cars.

Three hundred different makes and models of cars and trucks were recalled last year. Consumer Reports has a car recall tracker where you can see those. You just put in your car’s make, model, and year and it’ll tell you if there’s a problem.

As for food, you can sign up for recall and safety email alerts through the FDA and the US Department of Agriculture.

The key to keeping you and your family healthy and safe is to take recalls seriously.

Another way to stay on top of recalls is through your grocery store’s shoppers’ card. Most have an opt-in program for recall alerts.

You can also find recall information on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.