Product Recall Notice: Marks and Spencer's Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Attention: Important Allergy Information Product Description: Marks and Spencer's Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Reason for Recall: This product is being recalled due to potential allergy risks associated with undisclosed peanut ingredients. Consumer Advisory: If you have a peanut allergy or are sensitive to peanuts, please do not consume this product. Return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Safety First: Your health...
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Marks and Spencer has issued an urgent recall of its Milk Chocolate Honeycomb due to concerns that the product may contain peanuts not indicated on the packaging. This oversight poses a serious risk to individuals with peanut allergies, which can lead to severe reactions.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has classified this situation as a ‘possible health risk’ for consumers with known peanut allergies. Even trace amounts of this allergen can trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Details of the recall
Customers who have purchased the affected chocolate are advised to return it to their nearest Marks and Spencer store for a full refund. The recall specifically affects products with a best before date of May 12, 2026, and a barcode of 0917568\/29143603.
Marks and Spencer has publicly apologized for any inconvenience this may cause, emphasizing that customer safety is their top priority.
Response from Marks and Spencer
The company stated, “We take every matter regarding food safety very seriously and are committed to ensuring the well-being of our customers.” To keep consumers informed, they have issued point-of-sale notices explaining the reasons for the recall and the necessary steps for customers who have purchased the chocolate.
Understanding allergy risks
Peanut allergies are a significant concern in the UK, affecting approximately one in fifty children and one in two hundred adults, according to Allergy UK. This recall follows a similar incident involving Aldi, which recently withdrew Gianni’s Cheeky Monkey Ice Cream from shelves due to undisclosed wheat content, posing risks for those with coeliac disease or wheat intolerance.
Health implications of allergens
The presence of allergens such as peanuts and wheat can lead to severe health issues. Individuals with a wheat allergy can experience anaphylaxis when consuming contaminated products, characterized by rapid swelling of the throat, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. In contrast, those with coeliac disease have an autoimmune response to gluten, resulting in damage to the intestinal lining upon gluten ingestion.
Although gluten intolerance does not qualify as a food allergy, it can lead to various health complications, including digestive issues, nerve damage, and infertility. This highlights the importance of accurate labeling on food products to prevent accidental exposure to allergens.
The importance of labeling
Recent high-profile cases have underscored the dangers of inadequate food labeling. The tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse in 2016, who suffered a fatal reaction after unknowingly consuming sesame in a sandwich, led to the introduction of Natasha’s Law. This legislation mandates clearer allergy information on pre-packaged foods, aiming to protect consumers from similar incidents.
Despite these advancements, experts remain concerned about the ongoing risks posed by poor labeling practices. The recent recalls from both Marks and Spencer and Aldi serve as critical reminders for consumers to remain vigilant about checking packaging and being aware of potential allergens.
For more information regarding the recall and safety measures, Marks and Spencer customers are encouraged to contact their customer service at 03330 148555. Those with concerns about the Aldi ice cream recall can visit the supermarket’s website or reach out to their support team at 0800 042 0800.
