Food recalls aren't that 'common' says expert in 2020

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Co-op has recalled Co-op Anchovies in olive oil because it contains histamine. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with a sensitivity to histamine – a biological compound produced by the immune system, helping you fight allergies. High-histamine foods include alcohol and other fermented beverages, fermented foods and dairy products, dried fruits, avocados, aubergine, spinach, processed or smoked meats, shellfish and aged cheese. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has advised customers what to do if they have purchased the affected food product.

Product details:

Co-op Anchovies in olive oil

Pack size 50g

Best before: end date September 2023

The FSA stated issued a risk statement in regards to the latest food recall.

This read: “Histamine can trigger an immune system response resulting in symptoms such as diarrhoea, shortness of breath, headaches, or skin irritation.”

It outlined the steps Co-op is making to ensure the safety of its customers who may have bought the product.

The action taken is as follows: “Co-op is recalling the above product. Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product.

“These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.”

Co-op’s official product recall notice reads: “Product is being recalled due to high histamine levels.

“Return product to nearest Co-op for a refund, or if you are self-isolating or shielding please contact our Customer Careline.”

The contact details given to customers were 0800 0686 727 and [email protected]. Notices will be displayed in stores until December 22.

The FSA echoed this advice: “If you have bought the above product, do not eat it. Instead return it to the nearest Co-op store for a full refund, or if self-isolating or shielding please contact the customer careline – contact 0800 0686 727 or [email protected].”

According to Healthline, common reactions associated with this intolerance include headaches or migraines, nasal congestion or sinus issues, fatigue, hives, digestive issues, irregular menstrual cycle, nausea or vomiting.

In more severe cases of histamine intolerance, the affected person may experience abdominal cramping, tissue swelling, high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, anxiety, difficulty regulating body temperature or dizziness.

Food recalls rarely happen, but must always be taken seriously when they do.

This is to ensure the safety of customers, as incorrect packaging or undeclared ingredients could be hazardous.

The FSA explained why food recalls happen: “If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be ‘withdrawn’ (taken off the shelves) or ‘recalled’ (when customers are asked to return the product).

“The FSA issues Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food.

“In some cases, a ‘Food Alert for Action’ is issued. This provides local authorities with details of specific action to be taken on behalf of consumers.

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