Shoppers are being urged to check their kitchen cupboards after several popular food products, including jams, chutneys, and pesto, were recalled over undeclared allergens. These items, sold in supermarkets across the UK, pose a potential health risk for individuals with sensitivities to certain ingredients, including barley (gluten) and sulphites.
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the recalls are due to the failure of the product labels to mention the presence of these allergens, which are known to cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
The recalled items include various chutneys and pestos, which are sold under the Anglesey Foods Ltd brand. Customers who have purchased these items are being urged to return them immediately for a full refund.
A Risk for Allergy Sufferers
The recalled products include Sundried Tomato Pesto, Cowboy Chutney, Mango Chilli Chutney, Hot Chilli Jam, and Mild Chilli Jam. These items are being pulled from shelves because their labels did not mention the presence of barley (gluten) or sulphites—substances that can trigger severe allergic reactions in some consumers.
Barley contains gluten, which can be harmful to those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. Sulphites, often used as preservatives, can cause asthma attacks or other symptoms in individuals with a sensitivity to the compound.
The FSA has confirmed that the issue is linked to the mislabelling of the products, which did not accurately reflect their ingredients. This lack of transparency on packaging makes it difficult for consumers with allergies or intolerances to identify potentially harmful products.
Advice for Affected Consumers
If you have bought any of the affected products, the FSA advises you not to consume them. Instead, return the products to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.
The recall applies to various best-before dates, ranging from January 2025 to December 2025, with different pack sizes of 160g and 174g. Affected consumers are encouraged to review their pantry and dispose of or return any potentially hazardous products.
The FSA has also reiterated the importance of reading food labels carefully, especially for individuals with known food allergies or intolerances. The recall serves as a reminder that while food products are intended to be safe, lapses in labelling can create significant risks for vulnerable populations.
The affected products are currently being removed from supermarket shelves as part of the recall process. For further details on the specific best-before dates and pack sizes, customers are encouraged to visit the FSA’s official website or contact their retailer.
