Walkers Issues Urgent Recall of Hot Honey Crisps Over Milk Allergy Risk
Walkers, the prominent snack manufacturer owned by PepsiCo, has initiated an immediate recall of its popular Hot Honey flavored crisps. This decisive action follows the discovery of a critical labeling error that could endanger individuals with milk allergies.
Specific Batch Identified for Recall
The recall exclusively targets Walkers Hot Honey 6 x 25g multipacks from a particular production batch. Affected products can be identified by the batch code GBB 584 031 and a best-before date of May 16, 2026. The issue stems from some packets potentially containing Mild Cheese & Onion seasoning instead of the intended Hot Honey flavor.
Although the packaging includes precautionary allergen labeling for milk, the actual ingredients list omits milk entirely. This discrepancy creates a significant hazard, as consumers with milk allergies might mistakenly believe the product is safe for consumption.
Official Statements and Consumer Guidance
A spokesperson for PepsiCo emphasized the company's commitment to product safety, stating: "The quality and safety of our products is of paramount importance to us. We sincerely apologize for this error and are working closely with the Food Standards Agency, affected retailers, and allergen advocacy groups to promptly inform all consumers."
The company has confirmed that no other Walkers or PepsiCo products are involved in this recall. Consumers who have purchased the affected batch are strongly advised not to consume the crisps if they have a milk allergy.
Steps for Affected Consumers
Individuals who possess the recalled crisps should take the following actions:
- Immediately cease consumption of the product.
- Contact the Walkers Consumer Care Line at 0800 274 777 for further instructions.
- Alternatively, visit the official Walkers website to initiate a full refund process.
This incident highlights the ongoing importance of accurate food labeling and the potential consequences of errors in allergen information. Walkers and regulatory authorities are collaborating to ensure swift resolution and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
