Coles has issued a product recall for one of its ready-to-eat sandwiches sold across Victoria after failing to declare milk as an ingredient, posing a risk to consumers with allergies. According to a report from The Australian, the affected item—Coles Kitchen Chicken and Salad Sandwich (194g)—was available for purchase in-store and online between February 27 and 28.
Customers with a milk allergy or intolerance have been advised not to consume the product, as it may trigger an adverse reaction. The supermarket chain has urged affected consumers to seek medical advice if they experience any health concerns related to the mislabeled item.
Locations Affected by the Recall
The recalled sandwich was sold across multiple Coles and Coles Local stores, including locations in South Melbourne, Glenferrie, Camberwell, Balwyn North, Fitzroy, Brighton, St Kilda, Toorak Village, Normanby Road, and Surrey Hills. The product carried a use-by date of March 2 and was also available for purchase through Coles Online.
In a statement addressing the issue, Coles apologised for the oversight and any inconvenience caused to customers:
“We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience. Customers seeking further information can contact Coles Customer Care on 1800 061 562.”
Consumer Health Risks and Precautions
Coles has specifically warned that anyone with a milk allergy or intolerance could suffer a reaction if they consume the sandwich. The company has advised concerned customers to immediately discontinue use of the product and consult a medical professional if necessary.
“Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice,” the supermarket stated.
Food allergens can cause mild to severe reactions, including digestive issues, skin irritations, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis, making it crucial for mislabeled products to be promptly removed from circulation.
Refunds and Customer Support
Customers who purchased the recalled sandwich can return it to any Coles supermarket or Coles Local store for a full refund. Those who ordered it through Coles Online can request a refund or store credit by contacting Coles Online Customer Care at 1800 455 400.
Coles has encouraged affected customers to reach out for further assistance through its dedicated helpline, ensuring that consumers are compensated for the issue while the mislabeled product is removed from circulation.
This recall highlights the importance of accurate food labeling, particularly for allergens, and reinforces the need for strict quality control measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
