All you need to know about product recalls

YOUR CONSUMER RIGHTS CHAMPION

- Martyn James is a leading consumer rights campaigner, TV and radio broadcaster and journalist

Have you purchased an item that's involved in a product recall?

Don't panic! But be cautious.

Nestle recently recalled some batches of baby formula, reportedly because they may contain toxins. In addition, vehicles, white goods and thousands of other products are recalled each year because they may pose a risk to the public.

So how do product recalls work and what can you do if you've bought something that’s not safe?

I spotted my good friend and top legal expert Gary Rycroft talking about this on BBC Morning Live recently, so I've corralled him into writing a joint guide for you.

What happens when a product is recalled?

If a brand announces a product recall it's often only specific batches that are affected. The recall notice will provide the specific identification codes, a product number, or even timeframes when the goods might have been on sale.