The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a series of urgent 'do not eat' warnings for several popular food items, including festive cupcakes, mince pies, and frozen fish. The recalls, announced in late December, are due to undeclared allergens and, in one case, the possible presence of salmonella.
Recalled Products and Specific Risks
Shoppers are being urged to check their cupboards and freezers immediately. The affected products span multiple retailers and pose serious health risks, particularly to those with specific allergies. Customers who have purchased any of the listed items should not consume them and are advised to return them to the point of purchase for a full refund.
Tesco Free From Christmas Cupcakes
Tesco has recalled its Free From 4 Christmas Chocolate Flavoured Cupcakes in 220g packs. The product contains milk which is not declared on the label, presenting a risk to anyone with a milk allergy or intolerance. The recall applies to all packs with a best before date up to and including 17 January 2026.
Young's Gastro Lemon & Pepper Fish Fillets
Young's Seafood has recalled a batch of its Gastro Lemon & Pepper Fish Fillets (270g). The product contains mustard not mentioned on the label, posing a risk to those allergic to mustard. The affected batch has the code F2 L5283 and a best before date at the end of October 2026.
BOSS Sugar Free Persian Pistachio Nougat
In a more serious alert, London Wholesalers Ltd is recalling BOSS Sugar Free Persian Pistachio Nougat because salmonella has been found in the product. This recall affects 300g packs in England and Wales with batch code 140408 and a best before date of 9 September 2027. Salmonella infection symptoms include fever, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.
Additional Bakery Recalls
The Bakewell Bakery has recalled its Shallow Brandy Mince Pies due to undeclared milk. The affected six-packs have best before dates of 2, 3, 4, and 5 February 2026. Separately, Brookie Bakes is recalling its Dubai Bar Pistachio & Knafeh (68g) because it may contain undeclared peanuts, a danger to those with a peanut allergy.
What Consumers Should Do
The FSA's advice is clear: if you have bought any of these products, do not eat them. Return them to the store where you purchased them for a full refund; a receipt is typically not required. Anyone experiencing symptoms of salmonella poisoning should stay away from work or school until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped to prevent spreading the infection.
