Thousands of crisp packets are urgently recalled in UK over swelling, hives & ‘severe’ reaction fears
THOUSANDS of packets of crisps have been recalled across England with customers warned to return them for a full refund.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) sent out an alert about the product posing a health risk that could trigger hives, swelling or a “severe” reaction.
The watchdog issued the recall for Ottolenghi Vadouvan Pita Chips, which contains allergens not mentioned on the label.
Customers at risk are those with celery or mustard allergies, both of which were undisclosed on the packaging.
Ottolenghi has recalled the product, as well as reaching out to relevant allergy support organisations to ensure those affected are aware.
The product details are as follows:
- Pack size: 150g
- Batch code: 290525, 300525
- Best before: 28 May 2025, 29 May 2025, 30 May 2025
The notice issued to customers reads: “We are recalling Vadouvan Pita Chips due to the product containing undeclared mustard and celery.
“If you have bought Vadouvan Pita Chips as detailed above, and you have an allergy / intolerance / sensitivity to mustard and celery do not eat them.”
They have advised customers to return the product to the store for a full refund, with or without a receipt.
Celery allergies are estimated to affect 2.8-11.1% of the European population, particularly in countries where raw celery is commonly consumed.
Ottolenghi was founded by the Israeli-born British chef, restaurant-owner and food writer Yotam Assaf Ottolenghi.
It began as a small shop in Notting Hill in 2002 and has grown a cult following with its fusion food inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions.
The so-called ‘Ottolenghi effect’ refers to a meal which is “full of colour, flavour, bounty and joy.”
The pita chips are not currently listed on their website but their Za’atar Pita Chips are available for £6.30.
They also sell jars of Vadouvan spice for £5.
The website describes it as “a French take on an Indian spice blend.
“It’s sweet, smoky, and aromatic, making it perfect for fragrant curries, rich soups, and creamy sauces.”
Customers looking for more information can contact Ottolenghi on 02074852060, or at contact@ottolenghi.co.uk.
The signs of an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis & what to do
SYMPTOMS of an allergy usually occur within minutes of contact with the offending food or trigger, but they can also come on up to one hour later.
Most allergic reactions are mild but they can also be moderate or severe.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction which can be life threatening.
In some cases, anaphylaxis symptoms lead to collapse and unconsciousness and, on rare occasions, can be fatal so it’s important to know how to recognise them and act quickly.
Mild to moderate symptoms include:
- Itchy mouth, tongue and throat
- Swelling of lips, around the eyes or face
- Red raised itchy rash (often called nettle rash, hives or urticaria)
- Vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea
- Runny nose and sneezing
Severe symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Swelling of your throat and tongue
- Difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
- Difficulty swallowing, tightness in your throat or a hoarse voice
- Wheezing, coughing or noisy breathing
- Feeling tired or confused
- Feeling faint, dizzy or fainting
- Skin that feels cold to the touch
- Blue, grey or pale skin, lips or tongue – if you have brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet
Anaphylaxis and its symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency.
Follow these steps if you think you or someone you’re with is having an anaphylactic reaction:
- Use an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) if you have one – instructions are included on the side of the injector
- Call 999 for an ambulance and say that you think you’re having an anaphylactic reaction
- Lie down – you can raise your legs, and if you’re struggling to breathe, raise your shoulders or sit up slowly (if you’re pregnant, lie on your left side).
- If you have been stung by an insect, try to remove the sting if it’s still in the skin.
- If your symptoms have not improved after 5 minutes, use a second adrenaline auto-injector.
Do not stand or walk at any time, even if you feel better.
Sources: Allergy UK, NHS