Biona is recalling one of its nut butters due to undeclared allergens that could put consumers at risk of deadly allergic reactions.
The product contains three nuts that do not appear on the label, putting certain individuals at risk of life-threatening complications.
The popular spread, sold at Ocado, Whole Foods, and Holland & Barrett, is labelled as cashew butter.
The Food Standards Agency announced the recall on its website, stating: “Biona is recalling Biona Organic Cashew Nut Butter because it contains almonds (nuts), hazelnuts (nuts) and peanuts which are not mentioned on the label.
The product is sold at Holland and Barrett
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“This means the product is a possible healthy risk for anyone with an allergy” to the aforementioned nuts, the health body adds.
“Any customers who have bought the product should return it to their retailer for a full refund. We apologise for the inconvenience this has caused to customers."
The batch in question is coded E233189, with a use-by-date of December 31, 2026.
What causes a nut allergy?
Nuts - namely cashews, hazelnuts and pistachios - have been identified as a common source of food allergies in worldwide populations.
What causes a nut allergy?
A nut allergy is an immune response to the unique proteins found in nuts. This reaction typically prompts symptoms within minutes.
Nut allergies are commonplace in Western countries, where up to three per cent of children suffer from them to varying degrees.
A severe reaction can send someone into anaphylaxis - a condition deemed one of the most severe forms of allergic reactions.
“If you do come into contact with nuts and a reaction starts, then treating it quickly is important,” notes the health body Patient.
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Nuts can trigger severe allergic reactions
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In the event of a reaction, a person should treated with an adrenaline (epinephrine) injection straightaway to prevent life-threatening complications.
According to the NHS, the signs of anaphylaxis include:- Swelling of the throat and tongue
- Difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
- Difficulty swallowing, tightness, in your throat or a hoarse voice
- Wheezing, coughing or noisy breathing
- Feeling tired or confused
- Feeling faint, dizzy or fattening
- Skin that feels cold to the touch
- Blue, grey or pale skin, lips or tongue.
“You may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised or itchy,” adds the health body.