Tesco has issued a recall for its 230g Grape & Berry Medley packs after tests revealed contamination with salmonella. The supermarket is advising customers who purchased the affected product, with Use-By dates of February 16 and 17, 2026, not to eat it and to return it for a full refund.
This recall follows an urgent safety notice released by Tesco, warning consumers of the potential health risks posed by consuming the product. As health concerns grow, the retailer has clarified that no other products are impacted by this recall, but the public is being urged to act quickly.
Salmonella Risk Prompts Urgent Action
The recall stems from the detection of salmonella in specific batches of Tesco’s Grape & Berry Medley. According to the retailer, the product could pose a risk to health due to the bacteria, which can lead to food poisoning symptoms such as fever, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea. These symptoms can appear several hours to days after consumption.
In a statement, Tesco explained that the decision to issue the recall was a precautionary measure following the discovery during routine testing. As a result, shoppers who bought the affected product are advised to return it to any Tesco store for a full refund, with no receipt required. The retailer expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to its customers and emphasised that only the specific date codes are affected.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has also backed Tesco’s warning, advising anyone who has consumed the contaminated product and is showing symptoms to avoid contact with others until at least 48 hours after symptoms stop. This is crucial to prevent the further spread of salmonella, which can be highly contagious.
Steps to Take if You’ve Bought the Product
For customers who purchased the product, returning it to the store is the most straightforward step. Tesco has made the return process as simple as possible, ensuring that no proof of purchase is required. According to Tesco, customers should not consume the product under any circumstances. The recall also serves as a reminder to consumers of the importance of checking labels and dates carefully when shopping for fresh produce.
In the broader context, this recall is not the first to affect UK supermarkets in recent months. Earlier this year, Farmfoods issued a similar recall for its Ritz Cheese Sandwich packs due to undeclared allergens, raising concerns over product safety. Such recalls highlight the ongoing vigilance required by both retailers and regulatory bodies in ensuring the safety of food products on the market.
Salmonella contamination in food is a significant concern, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and young children, who are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. While most healthy adults recover from mild cases, the bacteria can lead to serious complications in those with weakened immune systems, making prompt action critical.
With food safety top of mind, Tesco’s response and recall procedures reflect the retailer’s commitment to consumer health and safety. However, the incident raises questions about how effectively such contamination is detected and prevented, and whether stricter controls could reduce the risk of similar issues in the future.
