**Ottolenghi Issues Urgent Recall for Pita Chips Over Allergy Concerns**
A popular snack producer, Ottolenghi Ltd, has announced an immediate recall of one of its pita chip products amid worries that it may pose a health risk to consumers with specific allergies. The alert was issued after it was discovered that certain ingredients were missing from the product’s label.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is urging shoppers to exercise caution regarding Ottolenghi’s Vadouvan Pita Chips, particularly those with sensitivities to celery or mustard. According to an official statement, the affected batches could present “a potential health risk for anyone with an allergy to celery or mustard”, due to the presence of these allergens not being properly disclosed on the packaging.
The recall pertains specifically to the Vadouvan Pita Chips in 150g bags, with batch codes 290525 and 300525. The best before dates in question are the 28th, 29th, and 30th of May 2025. These snacks are widely sold, including on Ottolenghi’s website, where they are described as ideal for dipping and retail at £6.30 per pack.
Celery and mustard allergies, while not among the most common in the United Kingdom, are known to provoke serious reactions in susceptible individuals. Reported symptoms can range from itching in the mouth, lips, or throat, to hives, stomach discomfort, or nausea. In rare instances, contact may lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition requiring prompt medical attention.
Customers who have purchased from the affected batches are being advised not to consume the product, especially if they have an allergy to either celery or mustard. The FSA has stressed that Ottolenghi will provide a full refund for any returned packs, whether or not the buyer still possesses the original receipt. The guidance to return the product rather than risk a reaction underlines the seriousness with which food allergies must be treated.
The company confirmed it has started contacting relevant allergy support organisations. These groups will inform their members about the recall to help ensure the message reaches those most at risk. In addition, Ottolenghi has issued apologies for the inconvenience and any anxiety caused, reiterating its commitment to stringent food safety practices.
This recall is part of a series of recent product withdrawals announced by the FSA. Earlier this week, both Asda and Morrisons were compelled to pull selected food products from their shelves. Asda withdrew hot and spicy chicken breast slices due to wrongly printed use-by dates, whilst Morrisons recalled Best 6 Thick Cumberland Sausages after small pieces of blue plastic were potentially found in some packs.
Food product recalls in the UK follow strict procedures, either by removing the item from sale – known as a withdrawal – or where necessary, by asking customers to return products already purchased – referred to as a recall. Food safety authorities encourage consumers to stay informed about these actions, as even rare allergens can lead to severe or fatal reactions in some segments of the population.
The FSA regularly shares updates on recalls and food safety issues on its website and through various communication channels, to minimise risks for shoppers. They also encourage anyone uncertain about a purchased product to contact the retailer or manufacturer directly for reassurance.
As this situation unfolds, consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant, especially those with a history of food allergies. The recall serves as a timely reminder of the importance of ingredient transparency and urges food producers to maintain rigorous labelling standards to protect public health.
For ongoing updates about food safety, recalls, and allergy information, the public are advised to follow trusted sources such as the Food Standards Agency and reputable news outlets.