Skip to main content

From July 13 to August 15, the Berlaar office will close at 5 PM instead of 5:30 PM

Check our opening hours
Back
My company
Back
My employees
Back
Myself
Back
My sector

Solutions

Recall & contamination insurance

A product that turns out to be contaminated, polluted, or unsafe can have major consequences for your business. You must recall products, inform customers, halt production, and minimize reputational damage. 

The recall and contamination insurance protects your company against the financial impactof a product recall or contamination. 

ondernemingen - product recall

What is a recall & contamination insurance?

The recall and contamination insurance covers the costs and damages that arise when a product has to be withdrawn from the market, including due to: 

  • Contamination or pollution 
  • Production errors 
  • Incorrect labeling 
  • Unsafe composition
  • Malicious tampering (sabotage) 

It’s not just about liability towards third parties, but also about your own costs to manage the crisis. 

This insurance is especially relevant in sectors where food safety, product quality, and consumer protection are crucial. 

What are the benefits?

This insurance may provide coverage for the following costs and consequences, among others: 

Costs for recalling products from the market. 

Destruction, replacement, and transport of contaminated goods. 

Business interruption due to production stoppage after contamination. 

Crisis management and communication costs in case of reputational damage. 

Who is this insurance for?

This insurance is particularly important for businesses in: 

  • Food and beverage production 
  • Pharmaceutical sector 
  • Cosmetics and personal care products 
  • Producers of consumer products
  • Private label manufacturers 
  • Distributors and importers 
  • Automotive 

Companies in the supply chain can also be held liable for recalls in case of contamination or product defects. 

Van Dessel analyzes your insurance risks within the production chain and advises you on a coverage tailored to your company.

What is covered and what is not?

What is covered?

  • Product recall costs
  • Destruction and replacement of products
  • Transport and logistics costs
  • Crisis management and communication
  • Business interruption losses resulting from a covered contamination incident

What is not covered?

  • Routine quality control costs or voluntary product recalls without an insured risk
  • Intentional acts by the insured
  • Pre-existing defects known before the start of the policy
  • Fines and administrative penalties

How much does this insurance cost?

The premium is determined based on: 

  • Your sector and type of products 
  • Your turnover and production volume 
  • Your quality and control systems 
  • Your traceability and crisis procedures 
  • Your claims history
  • The desired insured limits 

For example, a food producer with international distribution will have a different risk profile than a local producer. 

Van Dessel works together with specialized insurers and provides an insurance solution tailored to your production process. 

Stories from our customers

Testimonial Antilope De Bie Printing
Antilope De Bie Printing

Bart De Bie: “Van Dessel is een betrouwbare partner die vooral met zijn maatwerk het verschil maakt.”

Testimonial Groep Steylaerts
Groep Steylaerts

Patrick Steylaerts: “Wij hebben het volste vertrouwen in onze verzekeringspartner Van Dessel.”

Bram Gers van Germo bvba
Germo bvba

Bram Gers: "Vooral het maatwerk is de reden waarom ik met Van Dessel in zee ben gegaan."

Tom Bolsens van Van Wellen Group
Van Wellen Group

Tom Bolsens: "We waren verrast dat er uit zo'n kleine hoek dreiging kon komen."

Our promise to you

Personal & involved

a tailor-made partner

We start from your specific situation and take the time to thoroughly understand your risks, needs, and objectives. This way, you receive advice and guidance tailored to your business and everyday practice.

Expertise & experience

already 80 years in insurance

Thanks to our years of experience, we analyze your risks and insurance needs with a broad perspective. We provide a well-thought-out approach, clear solutions, and the right protection for your business.

Customization & innovation

beyond standard insurance

No standard formulas, but solutions tailored to your activities and challenges. From analysis and implementation to support in case of claims: we provide an approach that works in practice.

Would you like to receive a quote?

We analyze your activities, contractual obligations, and risks. You will receive a clear, tailored proposal for your business. 

Request a quote without obligation or contact us for personal advice. 

Which insurances complete your package?

Insights for entrepreneurs

Media & entertainment
18 July 2025 1 min.

Tomorrowland as a wake-up call: how well are you insured?

The recent fire on the main stage of Tomorrowland has made the entire sector pause for a moment…
boek 6
20 December 2024 3 min.

New Book 6 of the Civil Code – changes in liability law from 1 January…

As of January 1, 2025, the new Book 6 of the Civil Code will come into effect, with significant…
Evenementenverzekering
19 December 2024 2 min.

The role of an event insurance during the holidays

The holidays are a time of joy, togetherness, and fun events, ranging from Christmas markets to New…
nieuwe wetgeving schadevergoeding
24 October 2024 3 min.

New legislation shortens processing times for damage claims as of October…

The payout by an insurer in the event of a claim does not always go smoothly and can sometimes take…

Need help? Contact us.

Didn't find the answer to your question, or would you like to discuss your situation with a specialist? Our colleagues are happy to help you.

Prefer faster help? Check out our frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between product liability and recall insurance?

Product liability covers consequential damage to third parties. A recall insurance covers your own costs to recall products and manage the crisis. 

Is a recall insurance mandatory?

No, it is not legally required. For companies in the food or pharmaceutical sector, however, it is strongly recommended. In some sectors, it is mandatory to have a recall plan.

Does the insurance also cover malicious contamination?

Yes, if sabotage or malicious manipulation is explicitly covered in the policy.

What exactly are recall costs?

These are costs for communication, transport, storage, destruction and for replacing products that are withdrawn from the market. 

Am I insured for reputational damage?

The policy can cover crisis management and communication costs.