Ottolenghi Issues Urgent Recall of Vadouvan Pita Chips Due to Undeclared Allergens
A leading food retailer, Ottolenghi, has issued a recall of its Vadouvan Pita Chips due to the presence of undeclared allergens, posing a significant health risk to consumers with celery and mustard allergies. The recall, which is England-specific, was confirmed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and affects products sold in various Ottolenghi stores.
According to GB News, the Vadouvan Pita Chips, with a pack size of 150g, batch codes 290525 and 300525, and best before dates of May 28, 2025, May 29, 2025, and May 30, 2025, contain celery and mustard, which are not listed on the label. This poses a serious health risk to consumers with allergies to these ingredients.
The FSA has advised consumers who have purchased the product and have celery or mustard allergies not to eat it. Instead, they should return it to the store of purchase for a full refund, with or without a receipt. Ottolenghi has contacted relevant allergy support organisations to inform their members about the recall and has also issued point-of-sale notices explaining the situation to customers.
In a statement, GB News reported that Ottolenghi has apologised for the inconvenience caused and is providing support to affected customers. Consumers can contact Ottolenghi on 02074852060 or [email protected] for more information.
The FSA has emphasised the importance of taking food recalls seriously to ensure customer safety. "Sometimes there will be a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold," the agency stated. "Then it might be ‘withdrawn’ (taken off the shelves) or ‘recalled’ (when customers are asked to return the product). Sometimes foods have to be withdrawn or recalled if there is a risk to consumers because the allergy labelling is missing or incorrect, or if there is any other food allergy risk. When there is a food allergy risk, the FSA will issue an Allergy Alert."
Allergy UK provides valuable information on celery and mustard allergies, including signs and symptoms, and what to avoid. According to the charity, reactions to celery are usually associated with cross-reactions with pollen, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Primary celery allergy is less common but can cause more severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Similarly, mustard allergy can affect people of any age, and symptoms can vary from mild to severe. The charity advises that people with allergies should always check food labels carefully and be aware of the risks associated with certain ingredients.
In related news, Britons were recently warned about a pasta sauce that may contain glass. The FSA and food manufacturers are working together to ensure that consumers are protected from potential food safety risks.
Consumers can find more information about the recall and how to return the product on the Ottolenghi website or by contacting the company directly. GB News will continue to provide updates on this recall and other food safety alerts.
