Salmonella outbreak: Regulators issue precautionary advice after Kinder products recalled

The Food Standards Agency (FSA), along with Food Standards Scotland (FSS), have issued an advice for consumers not to eat certain Kinder products with best before dates between 11 July 2022 and 7 October 2022.

The alert follows a recall by manufacturer Ferrero of selected batches of Kinder Surprise as a ‘precautionary action’ because it might be contaminated with Salmonella.

Ferrero added that only Kinder Surprise products manufactured in Belgium are affected.

“Investigations, led by UKHSA, Public Health Scotland, Public Health Wales and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland, have found a link between reported cases of salmonella poisoning across the UK and a specific product produced by the Ferrero company,” the FSA and the FSS said in a joint statement.

“In response to this, Ferrero has taken the precautionary step to undertake a product withdrawal and recall with immediate effect whilst investigations continue.”

The product thought to be affected have all been manufactured at the same factory. Other products manufactured by Kinder are not thought to be affected.

Symptoms of salmonellos is typically resolve themselves within a few days and include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. However, symptoms can be more severe and lead to hospitalisation, especially in the very young and those with weakened immune systems.

“We welcome the precautionary approach being taken by Ferrero and are advising consumers not to eat any of the products listed in the FSA alert. It is really important that consumers follow this advice to avoid the risk of becoming ill with salmonella poisoning,” Tina Potter, FSA Head of Incidents, said.

“We know that these particular products are popular with young children, especially as Easter approaches, so we would urge parents and guardians of children to check if any products already in their home are affected by this recall.”

Dr Lesley Larkin, Surveillance Lead, Gastrointestinal Pathogens and Food Safety (One Health) at UKHSA, added: “We welcome the co-operation of Ferrero International S.A in instituting the recall and withdrawal of a number of confectionary products linked to an ongoing outbreak of Salmonella in the UK.

“Anybody with concerns that they have symptoms of salmonellosis should contact their GP or call NHS 111. Salmonella can be spread from person to person, so anyone affected should adhere to good hygiene practice such as washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoiding handling food for others where possible, if you have symptoms.”

Ferrero has issued point of sale notices for display in retail stores that are selling the product. If you have bought the above product, please contact the Ferrero consumer careline on consumers.uk@ferrero.com or 0330 053 8943 UK or +44 (0)330 053 8943 Ireland to obtain a full refund.

Product details

Kinder Surprise

Pack size: 20g and 20g x 3

Best before: All dates between 11 July 2022 and 7 October 2022