Waitrose has released a critical recall of its Indian Takeaway for 2 meals and called upon consumers not to consume the meal because of a critical error in packaging. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has informed the public about some packs of the meal being incorrectly packed with spring rolls with undeclared soya and sesame contents. This presents a serious and life-threatening danger to people who suffer from allergies to such foods.
The move affects a single batch of the normal ready meal item. The supermarket chain is asking all consumers who purchased the item to return it for a full refund immediately. This exposes a critical supply chain failure as improperly labelled items reached stores across the country.
The move is a caution to prevent allergic reactions, which may range from mild state to life-threatening anaphylaxis. The FSA, in a public statement, confirmed the recall is of the highest urgency. It urged consumers not to consume the product under any circumstances in case they have an allergy to sesame or soya.
Recall Notice
Product: Waitrose Indian Takeaway for 2 (1412g)
Batch: Use-by date 25 July 2025
Issue: Manufacturing error where spring rolls containing sesame and soya were placed in some boxes.
The FSA has warned that the product poses a “possible health risk” for anyone with an allergy to sesame or soya due to the missing information. In response, Waitrose has been instructed to work closely with allergy support groups to alert at-risk individuals. The supermarket has also displayed prominent recall notices in all its branches. This incident serves as a sharp reminder of how crucial vigilance is in food manufacturing and labelling; for millions living with food allergies, clear and accurate information is the only safeguard they have.
Labelling Failure
The packaging lists only the curry meal’s ingredients and omits these allergens. The FSA states this makes the product a “possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to sesame and/or soya.” Waitrose has been told to work with allergy support groups to alert at-risk individuals and has posted recall notices in all branches.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance in food manufacturing and labelling, as clear, accurate information is the only safeguard for millions living with food allergies.
Why Allergens Are So Significant
Soya or sesame can trigger symptoms from rashes and swelling to breathing difficulties. In the worst cases, they can cause anaphylaxis, which requires urgent medical care. UK food safety law mandates that all major allergens must be clearly declared and emphasised on labels, making this a serious breach.
What Customers Must Do Now
- Do not consume the product if allergic to sesame and/or soya.
- Return it to your nearest Waitrose branch.
- Receive a full refund (no receipt required).
Customer care: 0800 188 884 (Option 4). Waitrose has apologised, stating: “We apologise that it has become necessary to withdraw this product for safety reasons and for the inconvenience caused.”
The Broader Picture: Food Recalls in the UK
The FSA coordinates recalls nationwide, which can stem from undeclared allergens, bacterial contamination, or foreign objects. Its website lists all alerts for transparency. The Waitrose recall is one of several recent alerts, including others for potential Salmonella contamination and undeclared allergens.
Recalls also trigger full investigations, including checks on manufacturing, suppliers, and packaging protocols to prevent recurrence.
A Commitment to Consumer Safety
The rapid response from Waitrose and the FSA shows the system working to protect the public. While inconvenient, the recall removes risk from shelves and reassures consumers. Waitrose will address the root cause, and the FSA will continue oversight.
For now, the advice is simple: if you have the affected meal, return it immediately for a refund—protecting both yourself and others.