The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an urgent allergy alert, prompting a major UK supermarket to pull a popular chocolate product from its shelves. Kestrel Foods has initiated a recall of its Forest Feast Belgian Milk Chocolate Jumbo Raisins due to a potentially dangerous labelling error.
What is the reason for the recall?
The recall has been launched because the 1kg packs of chocolate-covered raisins may contain peanuts and nuts which are not declared on the product label. This poses a significant health risk to anyone with an allergy to these ingredients. The FSA classifies such incidents as serious, triggering an official Allergy Alert to protect consumers.
Which batches are affected?
Shoppers are urged to check their purchases immediately. The recall affects specific batches of the product, all sharing a best before date of 31 December 2026. Consumers should look for the following batch codes on the packaging:
- 5344136460
- 5345136460
- 5346136460
If you have a product matching these codes, you are advised not to consume it.
What should consumers do now?
The FSA and Kestrel Foods have issued clear instructions for customers. If you have bought this product and have a peanut or nut allergy, do not eat it. The company has instructed point-of-sale notices in stores, advising customers to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. The recall specifically applies to products sold at Costco stores in the UK.
Kestrel Foods is also contacting relevant allergy support organisations to ensure their members are informed. This action underscores the critical importance of accurate food labelling and the swift processes in place to manage risks when errors occur. The FSA reminds the public that products are withdrawn or recalled when there is any food allergy risk from missing or incorrect labelling.
