This SOP ensures customer food poisoning complaints are handled efficiently and legally, including recall checks, internal reviews, and escalation procedures.
1. Initial Customer Interaction
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Express empathy and acknowledge the complaint.
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Collect key details:
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Customer contact info, product details (name, batch, UPC, expiration), purchase date, symptoms, and medical attention sought.
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DO NOT confirm responsibility.
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Inform the customer their complaint will be reviewed.
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Use Macro: Initiate the Complaint Workflow using Retail::Product Defects or Damages.
2. Check for Recent Product Recalls
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Verify in Internal Recall Database, Regulatory Websites, and Corporate Updates.
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Example Recall: In 2025, Marks & Spencer recalled Southern Fried Chicken Burger & Chicken Kyiv due to Salmonella (source).
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If recalled, instruct the customer on safe return/disposal.
3. Internal Review & Investigation
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Legal & Compliance: Assess liability and regulatory requirements.
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Store & Supply Chain Teams: Investigate storage, handling, and sourcing.
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Possible Outcomes:
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Store Issue Identified: Corrective action taken; inform the customer.
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Supplier Issue: Escalate for further investigation.
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No Further Action: If insufficient evidence, log and close the case.
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4. Resolution & Follow-Up
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If warranted, issue a refund or compensation.
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Provide a clear response and next steps to the customer.
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Direct severe cases to health authorities if needed.
5. Documentation & Record-Keeping
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Log all cases in the complaint system, including findings and actions taken.
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Escalate severe cases to Legal & Compliance immediately.
Key Contacts for Escalation
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Legal & Compliance
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Food Safety & Quality Assurance
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Store Operations & Supply Chain
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Corporate Recall Team
Important Notes
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Never confirm liability during intake.
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Do not advise customers to discard the product unless recalled.
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Forward regulatory inquiries to Legal & Compliance.
This streamlined SOP ensures prompt and compliant handling of food poisoning complaints.
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