The Food Standards Agency has escalated its public health warnings, issuing a series of urgent food recalls and allergy alerts for a range of popular products found on supermarket shelves. Britons are being strongly advised to check their kitchens and cupboards immediately, as several items, including chicken burgers, crisps, and other snacks, have been slapped with a critical "do not eat" notice.
Critical Safety Warnings Issued Nationwide
This coordinated action by the FSA comes in response to significant safety failures identified in product labelling and manufacturing. The primary concerns centre on the presence of undeclared allergens within the ingredients, which are not mentioned on the packaging, posing a severe risk to individuals with specific food allergies or intolerances. In a separate, alarming case, one product has been recalled due to the potential presence of foreign metal contamination.
Consumers who have purchased any of the affected items are being urged in the strongest terms to return them to the point of purchase for a full refund and to avoid consumption entirely. The FSA emphasises that this is a precautionary measure to prevent any potential adverse health reactions or injuries.
Full List of Recalled Products and Specific Risks
The following products are subject to the urgent recall notices. Shoppers should verify the pack sizes, batch codes, and use-by dates carefully.
- THIS™ Isn’t Chicken Deli Pieces (120g): This vegetarian chicken alternative is being recalled because the product contains soya and wheat (gluten), which are not declared on the label. Affected use-by dates include January 29 and 30, and February 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, and 13.
- Lidl GB Red Hen Gastro 2 Southern Fried Chicken Thigh Burgers (330g): Recalled due to containing celery, an allergen that is not emphasised in bold on the label as required. All use-by dates are affected.
- Lidl GB Snaktastic Multigrain Bites Sour Cream & Black Pepper (150g): This snack poses a unique physical hazard, as it may contain pieces of foil, creating a serious health risk if ingested. The batch code is 207 345, with a best-before date of April 4, 2026.
- Tesco Special Fried Rice (350g): Recalled because it contains wheat (gluten), which is not mentioned on the product label. The affected use-by date is February 2, 2026.
- Cottage Delight Garlic Stuffed Gordal Olives (280g): This product has been pulled from shelves as it may contain almonds (nuts) that are not declared on the packaging. The best-before date is December 2028.
Understanding the Importance of Accurate Labelling
These recalls underscore the critical importance of accurate and transparent food labelling, particularly concerning allergens. For individuals with conditions like coeliac disease or nut allergies, consuming a product with an undeclared ingredient can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening reactions. The presence of foreign bodies, such as metal foil, also represents a clear and immediate physical danger.
The FSA continues to monitor the situation closely and advises all consumers to remain vigilant. Always check product labels thoroughly, especially if you or a family member has a known food allergy. If you are in possession of any recalled item, the safest course of action is to return it to the store immediately and seek a full refund.
