PRODTRAC news 2004

th snails, slugs and fly larvae. To compound these problems, the product contravenes labelling regulations, as the information is shown only in the French language and the packaging has no durability dates.

The affected product has the following labelling details:

Product Name: Cresson
Bar code: 3 000022 040401
Pack size: 125g, sealed plastic bag
No of units per box:12 packets
Country of origin: France

Further details of this incident can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/2004/dec/contaminationofcressonwatercress

Withdrawal of Ritu's Garlic Curry Sauce - Sudan I contamination

23/12/2004

Samples of Ritu's Garlic Curry Sauce distributed by Mosscope Ltd. of 161A Bow Road, London E3 2SG, have been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye Sudan I. Mosscope Ltd. has undertaken a trade withdrawal of the affected product, notified their customers of the problem and provided them with point-of-sale Product Recall notices.

The product was manufactured by Cerbos Impex PVT Ltd., 1690 2nd Floor, Arya Samaj Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi 110005, India.

The product known to be affected is:

Ritu’s Garlic Curry Sauce
425g
Best Before: July 2005
Batch code: SRGCS 0104

As a precautionary measure, Mosscope Ltd. has also withdrawn Ritu's Spicy Curry Sauce; 425g; Best Before July 2005; Batch code: SRSCS 0104. No other Ritu's products are known to be affected.

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/2004/dec/ritugarliccurry

General Food Regulations published, with heavy penalties for lack of traceability

21/12/2004

In the UK, the General Food Regulations SI 2004 No 3279 have been published, to come into force on 1 January 2005.

These Regulations detail the legal penalties for failure to comply with the following sections of EU General Food Regulation No 178/2002:

Article 14(1) on marketing of unsafe food;

Article 16 on misleading presentation of food;

Article 18 on tracing the origins of foods to a business and sale of foods from a business;

Article 19 on responsibilities for businesses to withdraw or recall unsafe food and to communicate with authorities.

Failure to comply with any of these Articles can be punishable with imprisonment for up to 2 years. In addition, a fine of £20,000 may be imposed for a failure to comply with Article 14(1), and a fine of £2,000 (the current statutory maximum) for contravention of Articles 16, 18 or 19.

These imprisonment and financial punishments clearly illustrate the determination of the legislators to reduce the frequency and scale of product safety incidents and recalls. A ProdTrac software system can help businesses not only to demonstrate compliance with the law but, more importantly, to take full advantage of the business benefits that can be gained from a systematic and automated collection of data records. However much care and effort is devoted to responsible food manufacturing or distribution, any food business can be the innocent victim of an incident. ProdTrac ensures that any impact is minimised, in terms of both response speed and savings in management time.

To view the General Food Regulations SI 2004 No 3279 in full, visit:
www.hmso.gov.uk/si/si2004/20043279.htm

Tesco recall "The Snowman" fairy cakes - potential choking hazard

20/12/2004

Further to the news story of 10th December 2004 concerning the recall by Tesco of an own brand Tesco product - "The Snowman 6 iced jam tarts" - Tesco has now extended that recall to include two other bakery items. The company's recall annoncement is reproduced here:

--------------------- Text of Tesco recall notice ---------------------

Tesco Snowman Iced Jam Tarts
Tesco Snowman Fairy Cakes
Tesco Snowman Chocolate Fairy Cakes
Tesco is taking the precautionary measure of recalling packs of the above Snowman cake lines. The Snowman plaques on a small number of the cakes still have the plastic backing attached. This may present a choking hazard

This recall affects all date codes up to and including best before 8 February 2005.

No other products or codes are affected.

What you should do

Customers who have bought these products should return them to any Tesco store where a full refund will be given. No receipt is required.

Tesco apologise for any inconvenience caused.

--------------------- End of recall text ---------------------

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/tescosnowmanupdate

Mislabelled Walkers brand French Fries Potato Snack - undeclared allergens

17/12/2004

Walkers Snack Foods Ltd has taken the precaution of notifying the Anaphylaxis Campaign that some cheese and onion flavoured French Fries have been inadvertently packed into bags labelled as ready salted flavour. In addition, Walkers is today writing directly to people who are registered on their database.

People with allergies to milk, wheat and mustard may have a severe reaction to the cheese and onion flavouring.

Details of the affected product are:

Walkers Ready Salted French Fries In Individual, Single Serve, Packets (not multipacks and 95g size packets)
Best Before: 26.02.05
Batch Codes: All codes between and including GBC303 318d and GBC303 319d

Further details of this product alert can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/walkers

Trade withdrawal of International tandoori paste - Sudan I contamination

10/12/2004

Recall notices concerning contamination of Laziza spice mixes and pastes were featured on 17 December 2003, 10 March 2004 and 12 July 2004 (see the ProdTrac News Archive for full details. Since the last announcement, further sampling of Laziza International Tandoori Paste has shown that it is also contaminated with Sudan I.

The product was manufactured in Pakistan by Convenience Food Industries (Pvt) Ltd, and imported to the UK by Opulent Foods Co Ltd. (also trading as Z & G Ltd.), Alpine House, Unit 2, Honeypot Lane, London NW9 2RX. A distribution list has been made available by Opulent Foods, and the company has undertaken a trade withdrawal.

The product affected is:

Laziza International brand Tandoori Paste
330g jar
Lot Number 1811020
Best Before: September 2005

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/laziza1204

Tesco recall "The Snowman" Iced Jam Tarts - choking hazard

10/12/2004

Tesco has recalled an own brand Tesco product - "The Snowman 6 iced jam tarts" - with all date codes up to and including 'best before' 12/01/05. On a small number of tarts, the snowman plaques still have the plastic backing attached and this may present a choking hazard.

Tesco has undertaken a full product recall and are placing product recall notices (see below) in national newspapers on Saturday 11 December 2004.

------------- Text of Tesco product recall -------------

Tesco The Snowman 6 Iced Jam Tarts Tesco is taking the precautionary measure of recalling packs of Tesco The Snowman 6 iced jam tarts. The snowman plaques on a small number of the tarts still have the plastic backing attached. This may present a choking hazard.

This recall affects all date codes up to and including best before 12/01/05

No other products or codes are affected

What you should do Customers who have bought this product should return it to any Tesco store where a full refund will be given. No receipt is required

Tesco apologise for any inconvenience caused

Free phone 0800 505555

------------- End of recall notice text -------------

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/prodrecalltescosnow

Recall of Baffour Palm Oil - Sudan IV contamination

06/12/2004

Palm oils distributed by Baffour Oils of Unit 12, Leyton Industrial Estate, Argall Avenue, Leyton, London E10 7QP, have been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye Sudan IV. Baffour Oils has been unable to provide a distribution list for the affected products, but the products have been found on sale in retailers who specialise in African or African-Caribbean food products.

Products known to be affected are:

Baffour Pure Palm Oil
500ml approx
Best Before: Dec 2005

Baffour Pure Palm Oil
500ml approx
Best before: Dec 2006

Baffour Pure Zomi Palm Oil
500ml approx
Best Before: Dec 2005

Baffour Pure Zomi Palm Oil
500ml approx
Best before: Dec 2006

Ace Brand Pure Palm Oil
1 Litre
Best before: Dec 2005

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/baffourpalmoil

Recall of Pardo brand palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

06/12/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the detection of the non-permitted colour Sudan IV in Pardo brand palm oil on sale in the UK. The palm oil was exported from Ghana by Mercedan Enterprises of Accra, and distributed in the United Kingdom by Wellco Limited of 23 Barretts Green Road, London, NW10 7AE. Wellco has provided a distribution list of premises that have received the oil.

The batches affected are:

Pardo Pure Palm Oil

426ml
Best Before: 31/08/05

750ml
Best Before: 31/01/05

Pardo Pure Palm Oil Zomi

426ml
Best Before: 31/10/05

750ml
Best Before: 31/10/05

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/pardopalmoil

Recall of Osu Mart and Awura Yaa Palm Oils - Sudan IV contamination

06/12/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the detection of the non-permitted colour Sudan IV in certain palm oils distributed by Osu Mart Ventures of Unit 8 Argall Avenue, Leyton Industrial Estate, Leyton, London, E10 7QP. The company has attempted a trade withdrawal but is unable to provide a distribution list for the affected products. It is therefore believed that the withdrawal has not been successful. The affected products have been found on sale in retailers specialising in African or African-Caribbean food products.

The following palm oils are known to be affected:

Awura Yaa Pure Zomi Palm Oil
4.5 litres
Best Before: 2006

Osu Mart Pure Zomi Palm Oil
1 litre Best
Before: Dec 06

Osu Mart Pure Zomi Palm Oil
1 litre Best
Before: 31/12/07

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/osumartpalmoil

Juliamco brand zomi palm oil - contamination with Sudan IV

01/12/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the detection of the non-permitted colour Sudan IV in Juliamco brand zomi fresh palm oil on sale in the UK. The palm oil is imported into the United Kingdom by an individual based in the London Borough of Haringey, but the Agency has no details of distribution outlets. It has been exported from Ghana by Juliamco Enterprise in Accra. The product appears to be distributed through direct van sales to retailers selling African or Afro-Caribbean food products.

The 1.5 litre and 2.5 litre sizes of Juliamco fresh zomi palm oil are known to be contaminated. No minimum durability date or batch codes are specified.

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/juliamco

Recall of Adun Foods Palm Oil, bottled by MacPhilips Food Ltd - Sudan IV contamination

01/12/2004

Recall notices concerning contamination of palm oils bottled by MacPhilips Foods were featured on 16 August 2004, 12 October 2004 and 27 October 2004 (see the ProdTrac News Archive for full details. Since the last announcement, another brand of palm oil bottled by Macphilips Foods Ltd of Unit 2, Golden House, Waterden Road, Stratford, London E15 2EE has been found to be contaminated:

Adun Foods Zomi Palm Oil
1 litre
Best Before dates of December 2005 and December 2006

MacPhilips Foods has been unable to provide a distribution list for the affected product, which is distributed through direct van sales to retailers who specialise in African or African-Caribbean food products.

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/adunfoods

Recall of Loch Arthur unpasteurised cheeses - Listeria contamination

22/11/2004

Loch Arthur Creamery of Camphill Village Trust, Beeswing, Dumfries, has undertaken a full product recall of two different types of cheeses due to contamination by Listeria monocytogenes. The text of a Press Release issued by the company is reproduced below.

It is understood that the cheeses would have been on sale before 15 November 2004: consumers who purchased the cheese before this date are being advised to either destroy it or return it to the retailer.

------------------ PRESS STATEMENT ------------------

LOCH ARTHUR CREAMERY
Beeswing, Dumfries, DG2 8JQ
Tel & Fax: 01387 760296
19 November 2004
LOCH ARTHUR CRIFFEL & CRANNOG CHEESES

Recent samples of the above products have returned unsatisfactory microbiological results.

There has been a full trade withdrawal of these products. However, if any consumer still has possession of these products that were purchased prior to 15th November 2004, the manufacturer would like to advise that they should not be consumed and should either be destroyed or returned to the shop from which they were purchased.

Extensive product testing is now taking place and future batches will only be released for sale on confirmation of satisfactory microbiological results. The public should therefore feel assured that any of these products purchased subsequent to this notice are safe for consumption. If in doubt, please check with your local retailer.

------------------ ENDS ------------------

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/scottishcheesenov04

Boots recall chocolate truffles - mould contamination

22/11/2004

The Boots Company plc. has undertaken a product recall of two types of chocolate truffles sold in their Christmas product gift range, due to mould contamination of the filling.

Product recall notices (reproduced below) are being displayed in all stores and a letter has been sent to all customers who have used the store’s Advantage Card in the purchase of either of the affected products, requesting that they return the truffles to their nearest Boots store.

------------------- Text of recall notice -------------------

Important Product recall

Boots Delicious Lemon Raspberry Flavour Chocolate Truffles, in a Victorian Style Mini Hat Box Item Code 47-18-135

Boots Delicious Orange Flavour Chocolate Truffles, in a Ceramic Trinket Box Item Code 47-17-988

We’ve discovered a potential quality problem with these products. The truffles are naturally more moist than other chocolates, and this has led to an increased risk of mould forming inside them.

Although this is unlikely to cause a health risk, it could be unpleasant for anyone eating the truffles. As a precaution, we’ve stopped selling these products and we’re asking customers to return them to us.

If you have any of these truffles, please bring them to your nearest Boots and we’ll offer you an alternative product or a refund.

If you’ve bought these products for someone else would you please let them know about this as soon as possible.

Should you have any queries, please speak to someone at this shop or call the Boots Customer Care Team free on: United Kingdom 0800 915 0004 Republic of Ireland 1 800 509 115 We’re very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you.

------------------- End of recall notice text -------------------

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/bootstruffles

Recall by Arla Foods of Café Met milk drinks - potential glass contamination

22/11/2004

Arla Foods are recalling batches of Café Met brand Mochalatte and Chocolatte low-fat sterilised milk drinks, as a precaution measure following the detection of a fault which affects the neck of the glass bottle.

The affected batches are:

Café Met brand Mochalatte
290ml glass bottle with a red cap
Best Before: 21.05.2005

Café Met brand Chocolatte
290ml glass bottle with a purple cap
Best before: 22.09.2005

No other Café Met brand products are known to be affected and this recall only relates to the products described above.

The company has issued a product recall notice in national newspapers from Tuesday 23rd November 2004. To see a copy of this recall notice, follow the link -
www.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/arlafoods.pdf

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/cafemet

Picante Chorizo Extra - Salmonella contamination

19/11/2004

A formal local authority sampling of Alejandro Picante Chorizo Extra has found the presence of Salmonella. The product is manufactured by Embuttidos A Lejandro of Logrono, Spain and distributed in the UK by Brindisa Ltd of Balham, London. Brindisa Ltd has contacted customers to advise of the problem and to request the removal from sale of any of the affected batch.

The affected batch of product is:

Alejandro Picante Chorizo Extra
Pack size: 200g
Batch Code: 384
Best Before End: 03-2005

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/pcsalmonella

ProdTrac meets latest legislation needs

15/11/2004

The UK has published the amending food labelling legislation SI 2004/2824 - www.legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si2004/20042824.htm - requiring the clear labelling of allergen ingredients and full details of compound ingredients on packaging. This is to implement the European Directive 2003/89/EC.

Once again, ProdTrac is ready and able to help.

The amending Regulation comes into force on 26 November 2004, giving a 12 month transition period. After 24 November 2005, all products must be labelled in accordance with the amended legislation:

Where a food contains one or more of the defined allergens, the food must be marked or labelled with a clear reference to the name of the allergenic ingredient concerned;
The Regulations remove the previous exemption from ingredient listing in the case of the ingredients of a compound ingredient which constituted less than 25 per cent of the finished product. There is now only a limited exemption for some compound ingredients constituting less than 2 per cent of the finished product.

These changes mean that it is critical to identify the presence of allergens in any ingredients used, and to effectively track their use in products to ensure that product labelling is accurate and informative.

The ProdTrac program carries out this task automatically, providing instantaneous details of allergens in product recipes or in individual product batches. So the headache of accurate labelling and expensive recalls is avoided.

Ghana UK Trade Zomi pure palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

10/11/2004

The news story dated 8 November 2004 (Royal brand palm oils - Sudan IV contamination) advised of the contamination of Royal brand palm oil with the illegal dye Sudan IV. Further to this, another palm oil manufactured by Ghana UK Trade has also been found to be contaminated with Sudan IV. The affected product was manufactured in Ghana by Ghana / UK Trade Ventures Ltd, PO Box CT 4763 in Accra.

The affected batch of product is:

GHANA UK TRADE Zomi Pure Palm Oil

1 Litre
Best Before Sept 2007
Batch number: 004

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/ghanaukzomialert

BFW brand palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

10/11/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the discovery of Sudan IV contamination in BFW brand palm oil. The Agency has no details of the UK importer or distribution outlets, though according to the label, the product is packaged by Bajata Agencies and Farms Ltd of 4 Radnor Close, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 1XU.

So far, the following batch is known to be contaminated:

BFW Palm Oil

1 Litre
Best before end 2006
Batch number: 64 0030

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/alertactionbfwpalmoil

Recall of Inverawe Smokehouses Roast Smoked Trout - update

09/11/2004

Further to the news story of 8 November 2004 (Recall of Inverawe Smokehouses roast smoked trout - processing fault), it has been announced that only product sold through retail outlets is affected. Mail order food is not affected.

Identification details of the affected roduct remain unchanged.

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/alerttroutupdate1

Recall of Inverawe Smokehouses Roast Smoked Trout - processing fault

08/11/2004

Inverawe Smokehouses of Taynuilt, Argyll have recalled a batch of smoked trout manufactured with a processing fault that may allow bacterial growth to occur. The product is sold to retail outlets as well as to mail order customers. The product is sold throughout the UK.

Details of the recalled batch are:

Roast Smoked Trout Sliced Pack with Dill
Pack size: 150g
Use by: 5 November 2004
Batch Code: 1699

The company has also issued a press statement, the text of which is reproduced here.

---------------------- Text of press statement ----------------------

Due to a quality control issue, Inverawe Smokehouses are recalling batch 1699 Roast Smoked Trout with Dill sold through UK retail outlets. This product does not meet our usual high standards. Please return packs from this specific batch to Inverawe Smokehouses, Taynuilt, Argyll, PA35 1HU.

---------------------- End of statement text ----------------------

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/alertinverawe

Royal brand palm oils - Sudan IV contamination

08/11/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the discovery of Sudan IV contamination in Royal brand Palm Oil. The Agency has no details of the UK importer (see update dated 10 November 2004) or distribution outlets, though the product appears to be distributed through direct van sales to retailers of African or African-Caribbean foods.

So far, the following size of the Royal brand Palm Oil is known to be contaminated:

Royal Palm Oil
1 litre
Best Before 09/07

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/alertroyalpalmoil

Mama's Own brand palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

08/11/2004

The Food Standards Agency has announced the discovery of Sudan IV contamination in two varieties of Mama’s Own brand palm oils. The Agency has no details of the UK importer or distribution outlets, though the product appears to be distributed through direct van sales to retailers of African or African-Caribbean foods.

So far, the following batches are known to be contaminated:

Mama’s Own Pure Palm Oil

500ml Best
Before Nov 2005

Mama’s Pure Zomi Palm Oil

500ml
Best Before 10/02/2005

Further details of this product recall, with images of the product packaging, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/alertmamasownpalmoil

Various brands of muffins contaminated with peanut residue

29/10/2004

The announcement 49/2004 informed of the immediate removal from sale of ASDA 6 White Muffins in which peanut residue was present. The manufacturer, Allied Bakeries, has further announced that a number of other brands are to be recalled, as they may also be contaminated with peanut residue.

The affected products are:-

Kingsmill ‘Magnificent’ Muffins
Sunblest Muffins
Sainsburys 4 White Muffins
Asda 6 White Muffins
Tesco White Muffins 6 pack
Iceland Muffins 4 pack

All Best Before Date Codes up to and including 3/11/04 are being recalled.

Affected retailers will arrange for in-store Recall Notices, and the joint product Recall Notice (see below) will be published in tomorrow’s newspapers. No other brands of muffins are known to be affected.

------------------------- Text of product recall -------------------------

Important
Only for those who suffer from a nut allergy

Kingsmill ‘Magnificent’ Muffins
Sunblest Muffins
Sainsburys 4 White Muffins
Asda 6 White Muffins
Tesco White Muffins 6 pack
Iceland Muffins 4 pack

All 'best before' date codes up until 3/11/04

The above packs are being recalled as a precautionary measure.

We are doing this because we have discovered that these products may contain traces of nut, but do not have a nut warning stated on the pack.

Only those with an allergy to nuts who have bought these products are affected by this recall.

If you have an allergy to nuts, please return these packs to the shop where you purchased it and you will be given a full refund.

Alternatively call the Allied Bakeries Careline as below.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you have any queries, please contact the Freefone Consumer Helpline, as noted on the pack or the Allied Bakeries Careline 0800 197 0110.

------------------------- End of recall text -------------------------

Further details of this recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/muffins

ASDA brand packs of 6 white muffins contaminated with peanut residue

28/10/2004

Further to the recall announcement of packs of white muffins contaminated with peanut residue, ASDA.has undertaken a product recall of affected packs and arranged for in-store recall notices.

The text of the product recall notice to be published in tomorrow’s newspapers is reproduced below.

------------------------ Text of recall notice ------------------------

ASDA Stores Ltd. ASDA House, Southbank, Great Wilson Street, Leeds, LS11 5AD Press Office Telephone 0113 241 7829 Press Office Facsimile 0113 241 8015 PRODUCT RECALL ASDA 6 WHITE MUFFINS 35P - ALL DATE CODES AVAILABLE FROM ASDA STORES

Despite rigorous quality control measures, ASDA has been made aware of a potential issue with the above product. Although it is labelled as 'nut free', it may in fact contain traces of peanut.

As a precautionary measure, ASDA has immediately withdrawn this product from sale and is asking customers who have bought this product, and who have a nut allergy condition, to return the item immediately to any ASDA store for a full refund.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Customers requiring further information can contact ASDA Customer Relations (Tel: 0500 100 055).

For information or advice on the treatment of allergic reactions contact 'The Anaphylaxis Campaign' Telephone 01252 542029. The Anaphylaxis Campaign also have a website: www.anaphylaxis.org.uk

------------------------ End of recall text ------------------------

Further details of this recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/asdamuffins

Contamination of MacPhilips Foods Ltd own brand palm oil with Sudan IV dye (update 2)

27/10/2004

Further to the previous recall announcements concerning Sudan IV contamination of palm oils bottled by Macphilips Foods Ltd., an additional container size for Macphilips Foods Ltd. own brand pure palm oil has been found on sale in retail premises:

500ml Macphilips Foods Ltd own brand pure palm oil Best before end : Dec 2006.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/macphilipsalertupdate2

Pasteurised milk with reported 'off' flavour

21/10/2004

Longslow Dairy of Colwyn Bay, Wales has carried out a trade withdrawal of pasteurised milk following complaints that the milk had soured within its given shelf life. There appears to have been an intermittent fault which has tainted a small percentage of production. Microbiological and chemical testing has shown that this is a quality issue rather than a health risk, though the product does not comply with the food safety requirements specified in the Food Safety Act 1990.

The product affected is semi-skimmed and whole pasteurised milk sold in various sized plastic containers with various use by codes up to and including 23 Oct 2004. The labels are identified as Longslow Dairy Group, Lancashire Dairies, Spar, or Cowbelle, all bearing the health mark UK CW001 EEC.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwmilkoff

Product recall of organic free-range chicken contaminated with a nitrofuran

20/10/2004

Moy Park Limited (Craigavon), Unit 39 Seagoe Industrial Estate, Craigavon, Co. Armagh has undertaken a product recall of fresh organic free range chicken contaminated with a nitrofuran (furazolidone), a veterinary medicine banned within the EU.

The administration of furazolidone to food-producing animals was prohibited throughout the European Union, following its addition to Annexe IV of Council Regulation 2377/90, following the adoption of Commission Regulation 1442/95 in 1995. The use of furazolidone was prohibited because of its carcinogenicity and genotoxicity. At the levels detected, any increased risk is likely to be small, and there is no risk of immediate ill-health.

The affected product, in the form of whole birds and chicken pieces, is sold under the brand names of Moy Park, Morrisons, Tesco and Waitrose. The chickens came from a Northern Ireland farm and the remaining slaughtered chickens are being held. The problem was uncovered during routine tests carried out as part of the UK's surveillance programme for veterinary medicines.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwnitrofuransinchicken

Product recall of 'stubbie' bottles of Castlemaine XXXX and Stella Artois - glass defect

15/10/2004

Interbrew UK has announced a recall of certain batches of Castlemaine XXXX and Stella Artois, withdrawn from sale on a precautionary basis due to a minor defect in the glass caused during the manufacturing process.

A copy of the product recall issued in national newspapers on 14 October 2004, is reproduced below.

--------------------- Text of recall notice ---------------------

RECALL OF 25CL ‘STUBBIE’ BOTTLES CASTLEMAINE XXXX AND STELLA ARTOIS Interbrew UK have withdrawn from sale all 25cl ‘stubbie’ bottles of Castlemaine XXXX and Stella Artois lagers which feature a best before dates of JUL05, AUG05 and SEP05 which are located on the shoulder of the bottle and on the cardboard carton. The affected 25cl ‘stubbie’ bottles of Castlemaine XXXX are sold in cardboard packs of 10 and 24, with the affected Stella Artois 25cl ‘stubbie’ bottles being available in packs of 10, 20 and 24. The affected packs are only sold for consumption in the home through retail outlets such as supermarkets, off-licences and convenience stores and are not available in pubs and clubs. The product is being withdrawn from sale as a precautionary measure due to a minor defect in the glass caused during the manufacture of the bottle. The recall does not apply to any other Castlemaine XXXX or Stella Artois bottles or cans, or any of Interbrew UK’s other brands.

--------------------- End of recall notice ---------------------

G.C.C. Foods Limited brand palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

14/10/2004

G.C.C. Foods Limited brand palm oil has been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV. The affected products are believed to be manufactured in Nigeria, and appear to be distributed through direct van sales to retailers selling African or Afro-Caribbean food products.

The size of G.C.C. Foods Limited palm oil known to be contaminated is:

G.C.C. Foods Limited Palm Oil
1 kg
Expiry Date : 02.06.06

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwgccpa

Product recall of Graham's Home Bakery 6 White Snowballs - chemical taste and smell

13/10/2004

Graham's Home Bakery of 6 Barronstown Road, Dromore, Co. Down BT25 1NT, has announced a product recall of Graham’s Home Bakery 6 White Snowballs. This follows 15 complaints relating to a chemical taste and odour of the product. In addition, two complaints have been received by Environmental Health Departments. Both complainants alleged a burning sensation in the mouth following consumption. The cause of the problem is as yet unknown, however complaint samples and samples taken directly from the factory have been submitted to the Public Analyst.

The recalled product is packed in a plastic tray with a clear plastic film Barcode 5022951015709 All best before dates up to and including 31 October 2004.

----------------- Text of recall notice -----------------

Graham’s Home Bakery, Dromore, wishes to recall the following product: Packets of ‘6 white snowballs’ – Barcode: 5022951015709. All the Best before dates prior to and including 31 October 2004 are affected.

A number of complaints have been received by both local authorities and Graham’s Home Bakery.

The nature of the complaints include a chemical smell of the product and a possible burning sensation in the mouth if any of the product is consumed.

The product is sold in retail outlets throughout Northern Ireland.

Product identification: Packets contain six coconut covered buns, sealed in a clear plastic film.

Consumers who have purchased any of this product should return it to their retailer or Graham’s Home Bakery, 6 Barronstown Road, Dromore, Co. Down BT25 1NT for a full refund.

----------------- End of recall text -----------------

Further details of this recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/snowballsfhw

Blue Bay palm oil update - Sudan IV contamination

12/10/2004

Further to the recall announcement of 19 July 2004 concerning the contamination by Sudan IV of Blue Bay Brand pure palm oil, an additional type of container and a different Best Before Date have been found on sale in retail premises.

These additional affected products are
1Ltr Blue Bay Palm Oil
Best Before : 13 Dec 2006

Unspecified Weight Blue Bay Zomi Oil
Best Before : 31 Dec 2006

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/bluebaypalmoilupdate1

Jumbo UK and Tropical Sun palm oil - update on Sudan IV contamination

12/10/2004

Further to the advice of Sudan IV contamination of Jumbo Zomi Palm Oil and Tropical Sun Zomi Palm Oil, an additional size and type of Tropical Sun Palm Oil has been found on sale in retail premises:

Tropical Sun Nigerian Palm Oil
2 Litre
Best Before End : Dec 2005

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwjumbopalmoilupdate2

Linwoods Wheaten Ring - plastic contamination

16/09/2004

Linwoods Bakery John Woods (Lisglynn) Ltd in Northern Ireland is recalling batches of Linwoods Sliced Wheaten Ring 400g and Open Oven Sliced Buttermilk Wheaten Ring. Following consumer complaints, the products have been found to be contaminated with hard plastic pieces. The source of the contamination was a plastic jug, used on the production line, which made its way into the product.

Linwoods has instructed all van drivers to collect any product remaining in retail outlets and is issuing a product recall notice to appear on Friday 17 September 2004 in the Northern Ireland daily press.

----------- Text of product recall announcement -----------

Linwoods, 190 Monaghan Rd, Armagh BT60 4EZ

Linwoods Bakery wish to recall the following products:

Linwoods Sliced Wheaten Ring 400g

Best Before 17 September 2004 Barcode 5016887001240

Open Oven Sliced Buttermilk Wheaten Ring

Best Before 17 September 2004 Barcode 5024517163282

These products may be contaminated with pieces of hard clear plastic.

Customers with any of these products are advised to contact Linwoods on 028 37568477 or to return the product to the shop where they purchased it.

----------- End of product recall text -----------

Further details of this recall may be found at the Food Standards Agency website:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/linwoods

Recall of Palm Oil bottled by MacPhilips Foods - Sudan IV contamination

16/08/2004

MacPhilips Foods Ltd. of Unit 2, Golden House, Waterden Road, Stratford, London E15 2EE have instigated trade recalls of several brands of palm oil found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV.

The affected products were bottled by MacPhilips Foods for the following companies:

1. Jumbo UK Ltd
Unit 4a Golden House
Waterden Road
London
E15 2EE

Villagers Brand Palm Oil, 750ml size, Best Before Dec 2006
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Nigerian Palm Oil, 2 litre, 1 litre, 455ml sizes, Best Before Dec 2006
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Sierra Leone Palm Oil, 2 litre, 1 litre, 455ml sizes, Best Before Dec 2005
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Zomi Oil, 2 litre, 1 litre, 455ml sizes, Best Before Dec 2006
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Zomi Palm Oil, Batch Code J003, 2 Litre size, Best Before Dec 2006
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Palm Oil, Batch Code J003, 1 litre size, Best Before Dec 2005
Jumbo UK Ltd. Own Brand Palm Oil, 455g size, Best Before Dec 2005

2. Wanis Ltd
Golden House
Waterden Road
London
E15 2EE

Golden Sun Brand Palm Oil, 1 Litre, 500ml, 370ml sizes Best Before Dec 2006
Pure Zomi Oil, 500ml size, Best Before Dec 2006

3. Also affected is the following product bottled for MacPhilips Foods Ltd:

MacPhilips Foods Ltd. Own Brand Palm Oil, 2 Litre size, Best Before Dec 2006.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwmacphillipspalmoil

Praise Palm Oil - Contamination with Sudan IV

09/08/2004

A number of Praise brand palm oils manufactured in Ghana by Praise Products (otherwise known as Praise Export Services Limited) and imported by Praise Foods Ltd - 360 Lea Bridge Road, Leyton E10 7LD - have been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV.

The products were subsequently supplied to the following companies:

Aduudi Enterprises Ltd
Jumbo UK Ltd
Wanis Ltd

The Praise brand palm oils so far found to be contaminated are:
Praise Brand Palm All - Regular Palm Oil
Praise Brand Palm All - Pure Palm Oil (NGOPA)
Praise Brand Zomi - Spiced Palm Oil
Praise Brand Zomi - Palm Oil

Sold in plastic containers of the following sizes:

0.5 litres
0.9 litres
2.0 litres
4.5 litres

All batches of the above products tested so far have been found to be contaminated with Sudan IV.

Most of the products have been sold directly to the public from Aduudi Enterprises Ltd, Jumbo UK Ltd and Wanis Ltd.

Further details with images of the products can be found at the Food Standards Agency website: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwpraisepalmoil

Update on Jumbo Palm Oil contaminated with Sudan IV

09/08/2004

Further to the warning of Sudan IV contamination of Jumbo Zomi and Tropical Sun Zomi palm oils, it has been found that Jumbo UK Ltd Palm Oil originated from the same contaminated batch of palm oil as those previously notified.

The additionally affected products are:

Jumbo UK Ltd Palm Oil
1 litre
2 litre
Best Before Dec 2005

Further details with images of the products can be found at the Food Standards Agency website:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwjumboupdate01

Update on Jumbo Palm Oil - Sudan IV contamination

09/08/2004

Further to the recall announcement of Jumbo Zomi Palm Oil and Tropical Sun Zomi Palm Oil contaminated with Sudan IV dye, it has been found that Jumbo UK Ltd Palm Oil originated from the same contaminated batch of palm oil as those previously notified.

The affected product was manufactured in Ghana by Kokwe Farms Ltd, PO Box 15849, Accra, North Ghana and was imported by Jumbo UK Ltd, Unit 4A, Golden House, Waterden Road, London E15 2EE.

The additionally affected products are:
Jumbo UK Ltd Palm Oil 1 litre and 2 litre
Best Before Dec 2005

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwjumboupdate01

Palm Oil contaminated with Sudan IV

05/08/2004

Palm oil manufactured in Ghana by Kokwe Farms Ltd, PO Box 15849, Accra, North Ghana and imported into the UK by Jumbo UK Ltd has been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV. Jumbo UK Ltd - Unit 4A, Golden House, Waterden Road, London E15 2EE - bottled the oil for its’ own brand Zomi Palm Oil and for Tropical Sun Brand for Wanis Ltd - Golden House, Waterden Road E15 2EE.

Most of the product has been sold directly to the public from Jumbo UK Ltd and Wanis Ltd through their retail outlets but they have also distributed it to cash and carry stores and retail outlets in England.

The affected products are:

1. Jumbo Zomi palm oil

1 litre opaque plastic bottle
Best Before December 2006

2. Tropical Sun Zomi palm oil

2 litre opaque plastic container
Best Before End 12.2005

Further details with images of the products can be found at the Food Standards Agency website: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwzomipalmoil

Recall by Holland & Barrett of Nature’s Harvest Roasted & Salted Seed Snack - glass contamination

04/08/2004

Holland & Barrett have issued a product recall of certain lots of Nature’s Harvest Roasted & Salted Seed Snack (125g). These products have been recalled following the discovery of particles of glass in a small number of packets. Investigations by the company and manufacturer have indicated that the glass came in with one of the raw ingredients.

The product recalled is:

Nature’s Harvest Roasted & Salted Seed Snack
125g bags
Best Before End October 2004, November 2004 or December 2004.

No other Nature's Harvest brand products are affected by the recall.

Further details, including the text of the company recall notice in national newspapers, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwnaturesharvest

Recall of Bevelini Chilli Paste - Sudan I contamination

04/08/2004

Bevelyn Ltd of Unit 10 Fieldings Road, Cheshunt EN8 9TL, have instigated a recall of a batch of Bevelini Brand Chilli Paste found to be contaminated with the illegal dye Sudan I.

The affected product was manufactured by Frantoio Bianco of Pontedassio in Italy for Bevelyn Ltd, who distribute the product to small retail premises.

The affected batch is:

Bevelini Chilli Paste
190g glass jar
Best Before 28.03.05.

No other Bevelini brand products are known to be affected.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwbevelini

Updated recall of Epicure beans in Chilli Sauce - Sudan I contamination (see 12 July 2004)

03/08/2004

Following the recall announcement of 12 July 2004, further information received from Petty Wood & Co Ltd., and Vegetarian World has confirmed that another batch of Epicure Beans in Chilli Sauce is affected:

Epicure Beans in Chilli Sauce
410g
Best Before End February 2007
Batch code ECB5064.

As a precautionary measure, Petty Wood & Co Ltd. had included this batch code in their Product Recall notice dated 12 July 2004.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwepicureupdate1

Withdrawal of Mr Bean’s Three Bean Mexican Chilli - Sudan I contamination

03/08/2004

Healthy Sales & Marketing, of Ridges Court Industrial Park, Okehurst Lane, Billingshurst RH14 9HR, has undertaken a trade withdrawal of Mr Bean’s Three Bean Mexican Chilli found to be contaminated with the illegal dye Sudan I.

The affected product was manufactured by Vegetarian World, 15 Holloway Drive, Wardley Industrial Estate, Worsley, Manchester M28 2LZ, and distributed by Healthy Sales & Marketing.

The product affected is:

Mr Bean’s Three Bean Mexican Chilli
400g tins
Best Before End February 2006
Batch code MBBC 4041.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwmrbeans3beanmexchilli

Withdrawal of Mehran brand extra hot chilli powder - contamination with Sudan I and IV

27/07/2004

Moona Foods Ltd. of 61 Spencer Road, Bradford, BD7 2HD have instigated a trade withdrawal of Mehran Brand Extra Hot Chilli Powder found to be contaminated with the illegal dyes, Sudan I and Sudan IV.

The affected product was manufactured and packed by Pure Food Ltd. P.O. Box 16872, Jabel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and imported into the UK and distributed by Moona Foods Ltd.

Another importer/distributor is Weedofoods Ltd. Unit 8, Manor Way Business Centre, Fairview Industrial Park, Marsh Way, Rainham, Essex RM11 8UG. It is believed that they are no longer trading and distribution information is unavailable.

The product affected is:

Mehran Brand Extra Hot Chilli Powder
100gram bags
Best Before 02/2006

Because the precise distribution of the affected product is uncertain, there remains the possibility that some may remain on sale in cash and carry outlets or independent retailers or remain in consumers’ homes.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwmehran270704

Golden Sun Palm Oil - Sudan IV dye contamination

23/07/2004

A batch of Golden Sun Palm Oil manufactured in Ghana and distributed in England has been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV.

Sudan IV is not a permitted colour under the Colours in Food Regulations 1995. It is considered to be a genotoxic carcinogen and its presence, at any level is not permitted in foodstuffs for any purpose.

The distributor, Wanis Ltd (Golden House, 44 Waterden Road, London, E15 2EE) has displayed a point of sale notice in its’ retail outlet in Hackney and has contacted their customers to try to withdraw the product, however the withdrawal has not been successful and there remains the possibility that unused affected product is in consumers homes.

The affected batch is labelled as:

GOLDEN SUN PALM OIL (Produce of Ghana)
Ingredients: Pure Palm Oil
Suitable for: Egusi, Okra and Bitter leaf soup
Best before End Dec 2005
Net Contents: 1Ltr

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwgoldensunpalmoil

Ernest & Julio Gallo recall Turning Leaf Sauvignon Blanc - possible glass contamination

23/07/2004

A product withdrawal has been issued by Ernest & Julio Gallo of certain lots of Turning Leaf Sauvignon Blanc. These products have been withdrawn on a precautionary basis following the possible contamination of up to 180 bottles with small particles of glass due to a bottling problem.

Ernest & Julio Gallo will be issuing a product recall in national newspapers, which will appear on Saturday 24th July.

------------ Text or recall announcement -------------

Product withdrawal statement issued by Ernest & Julio Gallo for the UK press Ernest & Julio Gallo is recalling limited cases of Turning Leaf Sauvignon Blanc from Thresher Group Stores. This is a precautionary measure following the possible contamination of up to180 bottles with small particles of glass. It is only product which has been sold in cases of six, as part of a free flights promotion, at Thresher Group Stores (Thresher Group Stores include – Threshers, Bottoms Up, Wine Rack, Victoria Wine, Hutton’s, Haddows, Drinks Cabin) on or since Tuesday 20 July 2004 that is being recalled.

Please note that only wine with LOT NO’S L4196; L4197; L4197A has been affected. This LOT NO. can be found on the back outer case and on the back label of the bottle.

If you have purchased this wine from a Thresher Group Store on or since Tuesday 20 July 2004, please return it to any Thresher Group Store where you will be given a full refund.

No other Ernest & Julio Gallo product is affected by this recall.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused as a result of the recall.

Customer Helpline (9am-9pm) 0800 583 2001

------------ End of recall announcement -------------

Further details of this product recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwturningleafwine

Blue Bay brand 100% pure palm oil - Sudan IV contamination

19/07/2004

A batch of Blue Bay Brand 100% Pure Palm Oil, distributed in London by Yadco Quality Foods of 71 Ashfield Road, London, has been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV. The affected product was manufactured by Home Foods Processing and Cannery Ltd in Accra, Ghana.

Yadco has ceased distributing the affected batch and placed point of sale notices in its retail outlet.

The affected batch is:

1litre Blue Bay 100% Palm Oil
Best before 31 Dec 2006

2litre Blue Bay 100% Palm Oil
Best before 31 Dec 2006

No other Yadco products are known to be affected.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwbluebaypalmoil

Salmonella warning on organic sprouted alfalfa

15/07/2004

Tests have found the presence of Salmonella in certain batches of Aconbury sprouted alfalfa products organic alfalfa produced by Aconbury Sprouts. The company, based in Pontrilas, Herefordshire, is a major supplier of organic sprouted seeds nationwide. It is carrying out a trade withdrawal of the three affected products.

It is likely that people could have contaminated sprouted seeds at home because they have a shelf-life as long as 28 July 2004. The Food Standards Agency is advising that anyone who has any of these alfalfa sprouts should not eat them because of the risk of food poisoning. Alfalfa sprouts are usually eaten uncooked in salads or sandwiches, and so there is no possibility of destroying the contamination by cooking.

The range of Aconbury Sprouts products containing alfalfa which could be affected are:

Alfalfa Sprouts in 115g clear plastic packets
Alfalfa and Radish Sprouts in 115g clear plastic packets
Alfalfa and Broccoli Sprouts in 113g clear plastic packets

The affected best before dates for all products are 21, 24 and 28 July 2004

Further details of this recall can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.foodstandards.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2004/jul/alfafasalmonella

Recall of Epicure brand chilli beans in chilli sauce - Sudan I contamination (also see update 03/08/2004)

12/07/2004

The distributor Petty Wood & Co Limited has undertaken a trade withdrawal of a batch of Epicure brand chilli beans in chilli sauce found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan I. Major customers have been notified of the problem and will provide point of sale product recall notices.

The affected product was manufactured by Vegetarian World, 15 Holloway Drive, Wardley Industrial Estate, Worsley, Manchester, M28 2LZ and distributed by Petty Wood & Co Ltd., Walworth Industrial Estate, Andover, Hampshire SP10 5AN.

The product batch affected is:
Epicure Chilli Beans in Chilli Sauce, in 410g tins
Best Before End: MAR 2007
Batch code: ECB 5124.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.foodstandards.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwepicurechillibeans

Laziza International Tandoori Masala BBQ Spice Mix - Sudan I and IV contamination

12/07/2004

Further to the previous recall alerts of 17 December 2003 and 10 March 2004, subsequent sampling of Laziza International Tandoori Masala Spice Mix has shown it to be contaminated with Sudan I and Sudan IV. The affected product was imported from Pakistan where it is manufactured by Convenience Food Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

The product is imported by:

Alamgeer Foods (UK) Ltd. Bridge House 119-123 Station Road, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 4BX, who also trade as Al-Noor Ltd (UK)
AKM Foods Ltd. 2 Fairfield Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 4NE

The recall affects all date codes and lot numbers the product:

Laziza International Brand Tandoori BBQ Masala Spice Mix 100g

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.foodstandards.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/fhwlazizabbq

Withdrawal of Pork Farms Bowyers products - potential glass contamination

08/07/2004

Pork Farms Bowyers has issued a product withdrawal of ranges of Marks and Spencer, Somerfield, Pork Farms and Bowyers Brand products. The products have been withdrawn on a precautionary basis following a number of reports of glass contamination of the products that are all produced in the same factory.

Pork Farm Bowyers will be issuing a product recall notice in national newspapers, to appear on Friday 9 July 2004.

-------------- Text of product withdrawal statement ---------------

Important safety notice
Product recall
Scotch eggs, picnic eggs and Savoury Bites
The following products have been temporarily withdrawn from sale as a precaution following a small number of reports of glass contamination.
If you have any of these products at home, do not eat them.

Pork Farms Bowyers:

Pork Farms Individual Scotch Eggs

Pork Farms 4 pack Savoury Bites
Pork Farms Snack Bar
Bowyers 2 pack Scotch Eggs

Bowyers 12 pack Savoury Bites

All use-by codes up to and including 17 July 2004

Customers are requested to destroy these products and return the wrappers to Pork Farms Bowyers, 55 Stallard Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8HH for a full refund.

Marks & Spencer:

2 Scotch Eggs 240g
4 Picnic Eggs 210g
12 Mini Eggs 250g
50 Party Selection 555g
30 Party Eggs 360g
20 Picnic Pack 220g
100 Piece Party Selection “Leave it to us” 2.2kg
28 Spicy Cocktail Selection With a Sweet Chilli Dip 340g
4 Mini Eggs “Food to Go” 80g

All use-by codes up to and including 13 July 2004 Customers are requested to return these products to any Marks & Spencer store for a full refund.

Somerfield:

Somerfield Scotch Eggs 2 Pack
Somerfield Savoury Eggs Mini 276g
Somerfield Savoury Eggs 4 pack

All use-by codes up to and including 17 July 2004 Products purchased from the delicatessen counter: Somerfield Scotch Eggs Somerfield Mini Savoury Eggs Somerfield Egg & Bacon Savoury Eggs All products sold before 7 July 2004 Customers are requested to return the Somerfield products to the store for a full refund.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and would assure our customers that supply will only resume once we are fully confident that all products meet our stringent safety standards.

--------------- End of product withdrawal text ----------------

Further details can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/porkfarmsbowyers

Product withdrawal of McVitie's brand biscuits - Malicious tampering

11/06/2004

United Biscuits has announced a product withdrawal of certain McVitie’s brand biscuit products which have been subject to malicious tampering during the wrapping process. This has resulted in the possibility of a sharp object being found within the outer packaging.

The company will be issuing a product recall notice in the national newspapers, which will appear on Saturday 12 June 2004.

-------------- Text of McVities product recall --------------------

Penguin Variety 18 pack biscuits (including Spiderman Promotion) Best Before dates between 18 09 04 and 04 12 04 McVitie’s triple pack Digestives/HobNob/Rich Tea Best Before dates between 28 08 04 and 13 11 04

McVitie’s is voluntarily recalling the above packs as a precautionary measure.

We are doing this because we have discovered a potential problem with these products. There is a very small risk of a sharp object within the outer packaging.

The quality of the biscuits is not affected, but we are asking customers to return the packs unopened.

The batches affected carry the Best Before dates shown above.

What you should do

Customers are asked to return packs unopened for a full refund to

McVitie’s Consumer Response, Consumer Services Department, PO Box 7249, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 2ZH

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you have any queries please contact our Freefone Consumer helpline on 0500 011710 for UK and 1800 409 317 for ROI.

----------------- End of Recall Text ---------------

Further details can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at: www.foodstandards.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/mcvitiesfhw110604

Withdrawal of Chenab brand chilli powder - Sudan 1 contamination

10/06/2004

Lubna Foods Ltd (164 Garnett Street, Bradford, BD3 9HB) has undertaken a trade withdrawal of two batches of Chenab brand chilli powder, found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan 1.

The affected products were packed by and sold through cash and carry and retail outlets throughout Yorkshire and Lancashire. Point of sale notices have been placed, and major customers have been notified of the problem.

The products affected are:

Chenab Brand Chilli Powder, sold in 100g plastic packets with a 'best before' date of 19 03 05 and a batch code of V107 01 190302
Chenab Brand Chilli Powder sold in 5Kg plastic packets with a 'best before' date of 30 04 04 and a batch code of VG 04 02 No other batches are known to be affected.

Further details, with images of the product labelling, can be found on the Food Standards Agency website at:
www.foodstandards.gov.uk/enforcement/alerts/chenabspice0604

Product recall of Sainsbury's cheesecakes - Egg allergy risk

04/06/2004

Sainsbury’s has instigated a product recall of batches of Sainsbury’s chilled cheesecakes. Due to a manufacturing error they contain egg protein as an ingredient, which will not be declared on the outer packaging and may therefore present a risk if consumed by people allergic to egg.

Adverts will appear in the national press on Saturday 5 June 2004.

--------------- Text of Recall Notice ---------------

Sainsbury's product recall
Important information for egg allergy sufferers
Sainsbury’s chilled 3 blackcurrant cheesecakes (3 x 100g),
Sainsbury’s chilled 3 strawberry cheesecakes (3 x 100g)

A manufacturing error has resulted in egg protein being added to the above products. This is not declared in the ingredient lists or allergen panels.

The products have been removed from sale, but any customers with egg allergies who have already purchased this product should return it to their local Sainsbury's or Savacentre store, where a full refund will be given.

This only affects the chilled cheesecakes detailed above and no other Sainsbury’s cheesecakes have been affected.

We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused.