A significant recall has been issued by Co-op, after a packaging mix-up led to milk being unintentionally included in its Triple Cook Thick Cut Chunky Chips. The supermarket chain is urging customers with milk allergies or lactose intolerance to immediately return the affected product. This incident, which highlights ongoing issues with food labelling, could have serious consequences for those with dairy sensitivities.
The recall affects 360g packs of the Co-op Irresistible Triple Cook Thick Cut Chunky Chips, which were mistakenly filled with Dauphinoise potatoes containing milk. Co-op has taken the matter seriously, advising customers to return the product for a full refund. The mislabelling poses a health risk, particularly for individuals with milk allergies, and could have significant implications for those who consume the product unknowingly.
A Hazardous Mistake
The recall stems from a serious error in packaging that resulted in an allergen being hidden inside what should have been a harmless bag of chips. According to a statement from Co-op, the 360g packs of Triple Cook Thick Cut Chunky Chips, with a use-by date of 14 February 2026, were mistakenly filled with Dauphinoise potatoes containing undeclared milk. This is a serious concern for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance, as they may experience symptoms ranging from digestive distress to severe allergic reactions if they consume the product.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an Allergy Alert regarding the mix-up. They explained that food products must have accurate labelling to ensure the safety of consumers, particularly those with food allergies. In this case, the incorrect product being inside the bags could cause individuals who are sensitive to milk to unknowingly consume the allergen. Co-op has advised customers who purchased the affected products to return them for a refund at their local stores or by calling customer service. The retailer has also set up point-of-sale notices in stores to inform shoppers of the recall.
Co-op’s Response to the Recall
The supermarket chain has acted quickly in response to the issue, issuing a public apology and providing clear instructions for consumers. According to Co-op, customers who bought the product online can obtain a refund by calling their helpline at 0330 041 7737. Those who purchased the product in-store are encouraged to return it for a full refund or replacement, subject to availability. Co-op has also reached out to relevant allergy support organisations to help spread awareness of the recall.
This recall follows a similar situation earlier in the year when Tesco withdrew a product due to a labelling issue involving undeclared wheat, which also posed risks for consumers with allergies. Co-op’s response has been consistent with industry standards for food recalls, as they are required to take action when there is a potential risk to consumer safety.
In the case of milk allergies, the consequences can be severe, including symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. For lactose-intolerant individuals, the reaction might involve discomfort, bloating, or diarrhoea. As such, the recall is an important reminder for consumers to always check food labels carefully and to remain cautious when purchasing products with allergens, especially when there is a risk of mislabelling.
