Lidl has issued an urgent recall for its Deluxe Red Cabbage with Apple, Dried Cranberries & Spices, warning of a potential health risk for customers with milk allergies or intolerances. The product, a festive side dish, was found to contain milk, which was not clearly emphasised on the packaging. This recall highlights the importance of accurate labelling, especially for shoppers relying on food packaging to avoid allergens.
The recall affects all 480g packs of the Deluxe Red Cabbage with Apple, Dried Cranberries & Spices, regardless of batch code or use-by date. According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the presence of milk in the product was not highlighted in bold on the label, which could lead to the allergen being overlooked. This oversight could pose a serious health risk to those with milk allergies or sensitivities.
Potential Health Risks for Allergy Sufferers
Milk allergies are among the most common food allergies, affecting approximately 2-3% of infants and up to 10% of adults who are lactose intolerant. For individuals with milk allergies, consuming even small amounts of the allergen can lead to symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to more severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of lactose intolerance, though typically less severe, can also cause discomfort, including bloating, cramps, and diarrhoea.
According to a statement from Lidl, the Deluxe Red Cabbage with Apple, Dried Cranberries & Spices contains milk, but the allergen was not clearly marked in bold, as required by food safety regulations. This omission could have caused the allergen to be missed by consumers when scanning the label. As a result, those with milk allergies might unknowingly consume the product, putting their health at risk. In light of this, the FSA has issued an allergy alert to inform the public and prevent further harm.
Steps for Affected Consumers
Lidl has acted swiftly to remove the product from shelves and issued a recall notice across its stores. Customers who have purchased the Deluxe Red Cabbage with Apple, Dried Cranberries & Spices are advised to return the item to the store for a full refund. The recall applies to all date codes and batch numbers, meaning no pack is exempt from the recall.
The company has also informed relevant allergy support organisations, which are helping to spread the word to those most at risk. Additionally, point-of-sale notices have been displayed in Lidl stores to alert customers to the recall and explain what steps to take if they have bought the product. Lidl has expressed its apologies for any inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their cooperation.
The recall follows a similar incident in which Lidl pulled two types of crisps from its shelves due to mislabelling. According to the FSA, both products contained undeclared allergens( mustard and celery) which triggered a separate recall in December 2025. This recent recall highlights the continued importance of accurate allergen labelling in the food industry, especially in products that cater to people with specific dietary needs.
Lidl’s recall of the Deluxe Red Cabbage with Apple, Dried Cranberries & Spices serves as a reminder of the crucial role that clear and precise labelling plays in consumer safety. Customers with milk allergies or intolerances are urged to check their products carefully and return any affected items to the store for a full refund.
