Tesco has warned customers not to drink certain Rubicon juice cartons after a product recall raised concerns about undeclared sulphites. Four batches of the Yuzu & Pink Grapefruit drink are affected, with shoppers advised to return them for a full refund.
The recall was issued by AG Barr, the company behind Rubicon and Irn-Bru, on 4 November 2026. It concerns one-litre cartons that may contain sulphites without declaring them on the packaging, creating a potential health risk for people with allergies or sensitivities.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an allergy alert covering the affected products, which were sold at Tesco and other UK retailers. Customers are being urged to check batch codes and best-before dates before consuming the drink, while notices explaining the recall are being displayed in stores.
Four Rubicon Batches Identified in Nationwide Product Recall
According to the Food Standards Agency, AG Barr is recalling Rubicon Still Blends Yuzu & Pink Grapefruit Juice Drink in one-litre cartons because of the possible presence of undeclared sulphites. The substances are not listed on the product label, meaning consumers with relevant sensitivities may be unaware of the potential risk.
The recall covers four specific batch codes, each associated with a best-before date. Batch 6160 carries a June 2027 date, while batch 6198 is marked July 2027. Batch 6219 has an August 2027 date, and batch 6257 is marked September 2027.
Customers can find the batch codes printed on top of the carton, next to the cap. The warning applies to these identified batches rather than the entire Rubicon product range.
According to The Sun, AG Barr described the action as a precautionary recall prompted by the potential presence of undeclared sulphites. The manufacturer confirmed that no other Rubicon or AG Barr products were affected.
The FSA has also advised AG Barr to contact relevant allergy support organisations so their members can be informed. Retailers selling the affected cartons are expected to display point-of-sale notices explaining the reason for the recall and the steps customers should take.
Tesco Explains Refund Process As Allergy Warning Is Issued
Tesco has instructed customers who purchased affected cartons not to drink them and to return them to any Tesco store for a full refund. Shoppers do not need to provide a receipt, according to the supermarket’s product recall notice.
The FSA’s advice specifically warns people with an allergy or sensitivity to sulphur dioxide or sulphites against consuming the affected drink. Such sensitivities can produce asthma-related or allergy-like symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath and hives.
Severe reactions may involve breathing difficulties or swelling of the throat. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical assistance.
According to ChronicleLive, Tesco confirmed that no other products sold in its stores were affected by this recall. The supermarket’s warning follows the manufacturer’s decision to withdraw the specified cartons because of concerns about their allergen labelling.
Customers who bought the affected drink from another retailer can return it to the original place of purchase for a full refund, as outlined in the FSA alert.
Anyone seeking further information about the recall can contact AG Barr directly at [email protected]. Tesco customers can also use the supermarket’s customer services channels for assistance with the affected cartons.
