**Waitrose recalls supermarket curry after labelling error raises allergy risk**
Shoppers are being urged to check their fridges after a popular supermarket curry meal was pulled from shelves due to a dangerous packaging error. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has today issued a stark ‘do not eat’ warning regarding Waitrose & Partners’ Indian Takeaway for 2, following the discovery that some boxes may have been packed with a completely different product containing undeclared allergens.
The affected product, the Waitrose Indian Takeaway for 2 (weighing 1412g, with a use-by date of 25 July 2025), is at the centre of the recall. According to Waitrose, a batch of the curry meals was mistakenly filled with spring rolls – a food item that contains both sesame and soya. Crucially, these ingredients were not listed on the outer packaging’s ingredients panel, posing a particular hazard for customers who suffer from allergies to either substance.
Food standards authorities and allergy support organisations have highlighted the seriousness of the risk and moved quickly to alert consumers who may be at risk. Allergy campaigners welcomed the recall but expressed concern at the continued occurrence of packaging mix-ups, especially given the serious health ramifications for those living with allergies.
A spokesperson for Waitrose confirmed, “We are recalling all affected units of this product. Any customers who have purchased it, particularly those allergic to sesame and soya, should not consume it. We ask that the product be returned to any Waitrose & Partners store for a full refund. Our Customer Care line (0800 188 884, option 4) is available for further assistance.”
The Food Standards Agency has clarified the process behind recalls and withdrawals in the food industry. Withdrawals typically mean the product is removed from sale, while recalls go a step further by asking customers to return the product. Suppliers are strongly advised to keep allergy support groups up to date so that vulnerable individuals can be rapidly informed of any risks to their health.
Under UK law, correct allergy labelling is a critical requirement for food manufacturers and sellers. Missing or incorrect information not only undermines consumer trust but can have life-threatening consequences for those with severe allergies. The FSA’s Allergy Alert system is regularly used to notify the public whenever such a risk is identified.
This latest incident highlights the ongoing complexities of supply chains, especially in large-scale food production. With multiple products often being prepared in the same facilities, even minor errors on the production line can have major repercussions once goods reach the shelves. Consumer rights groups continue to press for heightened safety protocols and routine checks to prevent similar errors in future.
Waitrose has said that they are reviewing their internal processes to prevent a repeat of this situation. In the meantime, the supermarket apologised to its customers for any inconvenience and reassured the public that product safety remains their top priority.
Shoppers concerned about recent purchases are encouraged to check any Indian Takeaway for 2 packs for the affected use-by date and to follow the recall steps outlined. The FSA is urging all consumers – particularly those with allergies – to remain vigilant about food product recalls and to sign up for alerts to stay informed about potential risks.
This recall serves as a reminder for both food producers and consumers to remain watchful for mislabelling and production errors. For those living with food allergies, even a seemingly small oversight can spell significant danger. With growing awareness and swift action from retailers and regulators, the hope is for ever greater safety standards across the industry.