The USDA has announced new updates to its popular FoodKeeper app that will provide users with information on recalls. Users can now choose to receive automated notifications when recalls are announced by the USDA and FDA.
If you subscribe to this app, you can choose to receive information immediately, as soon as they are announced, or receive daily or weekly updates. The update also includes additional instructional videos and handing and storage of food.
Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Carmen Rottenberg said in a statement, “This is a great way for the public to stay informed when food is recalled. The FoodKeeper app is a very handy and easy to use tool; and it reflects USDA’s commitment to provide the public with information and knowledge to help them make informed decisions.”
The FoodKeeper app was originally developed in a partnership with Cornell University and the Food Marketing Institute. It was intended as a tool to hep reduce food waste and improve public health. It has specific timelines on how long to store food in the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry for more than 500 products. Foods included on the app include baby food, dairy products and eggs, meat, poultry, produce, seafood, and more.
Rottenberg added, “We want to make sure the valuable recall information FSIS and FDA publish is available to as many Americans as possible. With the expansion of products covered in the apps database, this app is helpful to any type of consumer, and I encourage anyone who hasn’t already done so, to download and begin using the FoodKeeper app.”
You an use the app to find specific storage timelines for various foods, learn cooking tips and methods of cooking for various types of meat, seafood, and poultry, and note in the app’s calendar when products were purchased. You’ll get a notification when those products are nearing the end of their recommended storage date.
You can also use the app to submit a question to the USDA using the “Ask Karen” feature. And you can submit items not currently included in the database for consideration. If you don’t have a smart phone, you can use the FoodKeeper App at FoodSafety.gov.
