**Ikea Announces Immediate Recall of Garlic Press Due to Safety Hazard**
Consumers are being warned to stop using a popular Ikea kitchen gadget after the retailer issued an urgent recall. The Swedish furniture giant has flagged a potential risk with its 365+ VÄRDEFULL garlic press, informing shoppers that, during use, small metal fragments may detach and pose a danger if ingested.
The recall, which was detailed in a public alert on social media and the Ikea website, instructs anyone who purchased the affected garlic press to cease use straight away and return it to any Ikea store for a full refund. Customers will not need to provide proof of purchase to claim their refund, the company confirmed.
According to the official statement, the recall pertains specifically to the Ikea 365+ VÄRDEFULL Garlic Press in black with the article numbers 201.521.58, 305.781.89, and 601.636.02. Affected items have date stamps ranging from 2411 (format: year and week) to 2522. Shoppers are advised to check their garlic presses for the Ikea logo on the upper handle to help identify whether their product is part of the recall.
Ikea explained, “Safety is always our top priority, so we are recalling the IKEA 365+ VÄRDEFULL garlic press due to the risk of small metal pieces coming loose during normal use, which could inadvertently be consumed.” The company extended its apologies for any inconvenience caused and encouraged anyone uncertain about whether their item is included to err on the side of caution and return it.
Further details may be obtained through Ikea’s customer service team on 01733 520 006 or by visiting the recall section of the company’s website. The retailer specified that no receipt is necessary, aiming to ensure the recall process is as seamless as possible for concerned customers.
The issue with the garlic press was identified after an internal investigation revealed a production fault that could potentially compromise the integrity of the utensil. “The product was found to be unsafe for use after small metal pieces were found to detach due to a production error,” Ikea said in its communication. This level of openness over production issues is increasingly expected by consumers, especially when there are safety concerns.
Beyond the immediate risk, Ikea is urging customers to spread awareness of the recall—particularly important if the product may have been given away, offered second-hand, or lent to friends or family. This, the company notes, helps ensure anyone with an affected garlic press is aware of the hazard and knows to return it swiftly.
Notably, this latest recall comes within days of a similar warning. Earlier in the week, Ikea also recalled its 365+ HJÄLTE stirring spatula, which was found to have comparable safety issues, further underscoring the importance of careful product oversight and supply chain management in global retail.
As retailers face increased scrutiny over product safety, Ikea’s response highlights a decisive and transparent approach to rectifying manufacturing problems. The company’s swift action and customer-focused refund policy are likely intended to maintain consumer trust amidst the inconvenience of a product recall.
For customers seeking additional information or support regarding the recall, resources are available both online and via phone, ensuring that anyone affected can resolve the matter quickly and safely. The company reiterated its regret for the disruption caused and thanked shoppers for their cooperation in ensuring the continued safety of all Ikea kitchen products.