This study was concerned with the capability of food processors to conduct a product recall, when necessary, with the least time and cost expenditures. An evaluation was made of the effectiveness of the procedures, policies, and organization by which food processors have conducted or would conduct a product recall. Based upon this assessment, a model product recall program was designed to enhance the ability of food processors to conduct product recalls more efficiently. The study concludes that product recalls are very costly to conduct, and, therefore, every effort should be undertaken to prevent situations from occurring which require product recalls. The use of stringent quality control procedures and packaging improvements are thus recommended. Food processors are encouraged to adopt product recall programs in order to reduce the cost of conducting a product recall. If food processors do not take the initiative in these areas, consumerists will likely continue to pressure Congress for more stringent federal regulation of the food industry.

It has become more and more evident that independent food retailers must co-ordinate their individual efforts if they are to gain an operating efficiency paralleling that of the corporate multiple-unit or chain system. Such co-ordination largely has taken three courses: (1) group buying clubs, (2) wholesale- sponsored voluntary chains, and (3) retailer-owned co-operative warehouses. It is the last of these that this study suggests as the most appropriate course for Denton independent retailers.