An urgent recall has been issued for a popular pizza sold at Tesco and other retailers after a critical packaging error was discovered. The Zizzi Vegan Jackfruit Pepperoni Rustica Pizza was labelled vegan but may contain milk, posing a health risk for those with allergies or intolerances. The manufacturer has advised customers not to consume the affected batch.
This recall highlights the importance of accurate food labelling, particularly for consumers with dietary restrictions. Incorrect information on food products can lead to serious health consequences, making transparency vital in the food supply chain.
Health Risks and Consumer Advice Regarding the Recalled Pizza
The product recall was triggered by the discovery that the Zizzi Vegan Jackfruit Pepperoni Rustica Pizza contains milk, despite being labelled as vegan. According to the recall notice, this mislabelling presents a potential health hazard for individuals allergic to milk or intolerant to dairy products.
Symptoms resulting from dairy consumption in such individuals can include stomach pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, and vomiting.
The affected batch carries the code 5105 and has a best before date of 15 July 2026. The pizza is sold in the frozen section of retailers such as Tesco and Morrisons, priced around £3.50.
Customers who purchased this batch are advised to stop consuming the product immediately and return it to the store for a full refund, with or without a receipt. Zizzi has also issued point-of-sale notices in stores to inform shoppers of the recall.
Implications for Vegan Labelling and Food Safety Regulations
This incident raises concerns about the accuracy of vegan labelling, which is crucial for consumers who avoid animal products for ethical, health, or dietary reasons. The presence of milk in a product labelled vegan violates consumer trust and regulatory standards.
According to food safety authorities, labelling must be clear and truthful to prevent misleading customers and potential health risks.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) oversees product recalls in the UK, issuing alerts when food safety or quality issues arise. Recalls may occur due to contamination risks or labelling errors, as seen in this case.
The agency distinguishes between product “withdrawals” (removing products from shelves) and “recalls” (asking customers to return products). This measure helps protect public health and maintains confidence in the food industry.
The recall of the Zizzi pizza serves as a reminder of the need for rigorous checks in food production and labelling processes. Manufacturers and retailers alike bear responsibility for ensuring their products meet declared standards, particularly when catering to consumers with allergies or specific dietary choices.
