What we so far know: Mustard Products and Peanut Contamination (21st October 2024)

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) are investigating potential peanut contamination in mustard ingredients. FGS Ingredients Limited, which imports mustard for spice products, has initiated a precautionary recall of all products containing mustard.

A precautionary recall now applies to all products containing mustard imported by FGS Ingredients Ltd, regardless of whether peanuts have been detected.

What is known:

Affected Products: All products containing mustard, mustard powder, or mustard flour as an ingredient should be avoided by those with peanut allergies until further notice.

Scope: This includes wholegrain mustard, mustard condiments, and both fresh and long-shelf-life products containing mustard ingredients.

Time Frame: Due to uncertainty about when the contamination began, the FSA advises caution even with products purchased before September 2024.

Eating Out: Extra precautions are recommended when dining out. Individuals with peanut allergies should inform staff and avoid consuming any food if allergen information is unclear.

Investigation: The FSA is conducting a complex investigation to trace all affected products. This process may be lengthy due to the widespread use of mustard in various food items.

International Impact: At least one affected product has been exported to Ireland, and international food safety authorities have been alerted.

Advice for Food Businesses: Restaurants and cafes must inform customers with peanut allergies about menu items containing or potentially containing mustard ingredients.

What to do next

Hundreds of products may be recalled over the next few days and weeks, including ready meals, snacks, curry powders, seasonings, and spice blends. Mustard is a regulated allergen; its presence must be declared on labels or communicated by food businesses.

Advice for individuals with peanut allergies remains unchanged: avoid all foods containing mustard, mustard powder, or mustard flour due to potential peanut contamination.

Given the anticipated high volume of alerts Anaphylaxis UK will cease posting about this specific recall to prevent confusion and you are encouraged to look at the list of products regularly updated by the Food Standards Agency.

Simon Williams, Chief Executive of Anaphylaxis UK said: “We fully understand the worry and distress this ongoing investigation has caused for people living with a peanut allergy, and their families. It’s a difficult and frustrating situation for many, and we want to assure you that Anaphylaxis UK is working closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to keep you informed.“

A list of potentially affected products (FSA website)