Co-op and Waitrose issue ‘do not eat’ alert – symptoms to watch for

Co-op and Waitrose in ‘Do Not Eat’ Alert Over Contamination Concerns

Waitrose and Co-op have issued alerts urging customers not to consume certain products as they may be contaminated with harmful food poisoning bugs. The Food Standards Agency has raised concerns over potential salmonella and listeria contamination in specific items sold at these supermarkets.

Waitrose & Partners is recalling its No1 Pesto alla Genovese due to a Salmonella discovery in the product. The affected packs are 145g with a use-by date of September 26. Salmonella symptoms typically include fever, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. Customers who have purchased this product are advised not to consume it and should return it to a local Waitrose & Partners store for a full refund. For more information, contact Waitrose Customer Care on 0800 188 884 (option 4).

On the other hand, the Co-op has taken a precautionary measure by recalling Co-op Smooth Brussels Pate over concerns of salmonella and listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affects 175g packs with use-by dates of 19 November 2024, 21 November 2024, and 28 November 2024. Listeria monocytogenes symptoms can resemble flu-like symptoms and may include a high temperature, muscle aches, chills, nausea, and diarrhoea.

Vulnerable groups such as individuals over 65 years old, pregnant women, babies under one month old, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to listeria infections. Customers who have purchased the affected Co-op product are advised not to consume it and should return it to the store for a refund or replacement. Alternatively, they can contact the Co-op Customer Careline on 0800 0686 727 or 03300417737 for online purchases.

In cases where a food product is deemed unfit for sale, it may be either withdrawn from shelves or recalled, prompting customers to return the product. The Food Standards Agency issues alerts to inform consumers and authorities about food-related issues, such as Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices. In severe cases, a ‘Food Alert for Action’ is issued, providing specific instructions for local authorities on behalf of consumers.

Customers are urged to remain vigilant and check for updates regarding these recalls to ensure their safety and well-being.

This article was originally published on Wales Online.