FDACS Stop-Sale Orders: Distribution and Retail Sale

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an FDACS Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale order?

An FDACS Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale order requires a Florida food establishment to immediately stop selling or using a product that violates FS 500.04; FS 500.11 Misbranded. Food products sold in Florida must move through licensed, inspected distribution and retail channels. Products that bypass these channels — whether sold through unlicensed distributors, imported without proper documentation, or retailed through establishments that lack the appropriate permits — bypass every checkpoint in the food safety system designed to verify product integrity. A stop-sale for distribution and retail violations typically means the product cannot be traced to an inspected, approved source. FDACS has issued 10184 such orders across 676 Florida facilities.

What happens when FDACS issues a stop-sale order for Distribution and Retail Sale?

When FDACS issues a Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale order, the affected products must immediately be removed from sale or use. The establishment cannot sell, distribute, or use the flagged products until FDACS approves corrective action. Violating a stop-sale order can result in additional penalties under Florida Statutes Chapter 500.

Which Florida businesses receive Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale orders?

FDACS inspects and issues stop-sale orders to grocery stores, convenience stores, food manufacturers, bakeries, mobile food vendors, and vending machine operators. Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale orders have been issued at 676 Florida facilities, with 459 orders in the past 12 months.

What law covers FDACS Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale orders?

FDACS Distribution and Retail Sale stop-sale orders are issued under FS 500.04; FS 500.11 Misbranded. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) enforces Florida Statutes Chapter 500 and Florida Administrative Code 5K-4, which adopt FDA Food Code standards for food safety and labeling compliance.