M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Recall: Urgent Allergy Alert Issued for Undeclared Allergens

Oct 18, 2025 by talynt.org 10 views

M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Recall: Urgent Allergy Alert Issued for Undeclared Allergens

M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall has been initiated by Marks & Spencer due to the presence of undeclared peanuts and nuts, posing a significant health risk to individuals with allergies. This urgent product withdrawal highlights the critical importance of accurate allergen labelling and rigorous quality control in the food industry. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an allergy alert, advising consumers, particularly those with nut allergies, not to consume the affected product and to return it for a full refund. This M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is a precautionary measure taken by the retailer to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers, following an internal discovery that some packs may contain these undeclared allergens. The incident underscores the constant vigilance required from both manufacturers and consumers when it comes to food safety, especially concerning potentially life-threatening allergens. Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to check their packaging carefully against the details provided by M&S and the FSA. The company has expressed sincere apologies for any inconvenience or concern this recall may cause, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of product safety and quality. The affected products are specifically the 175g bags of M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb, and detailed information regarding batch codes and best before dates has been made public to assist customers in identifying the recalled items. Protecting consumers from harm is the paramount objective behind such recalls, and M&S is working swiftly to address the situation and prevent any further risk. This article will provide comprehensive details on the recall, explaining why it happened, which specific products are affected, and what steps consumers should take to ensure their safety and obtain a refund. We will also explore the broader implications of food recalls related to allergen management and the industry’s continuous efforts to enhance food safety protocols.

What Prompted the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Recall?

The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall was prompted by the discovery of undeclared peanuts and nuts within some packages of their popular milk chocolate honeycomb product. This crucial finding signifies a potential mis-packaging error or cross-contamination incident that could have severe consequences for consumers with allergies. Peanuts and nuts are among the most common and potent food allergens, capable of triggering reactions ranging from mild symptoms like hives and swelling to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. The absence of these allergens on the product’s ingredient list means that allergic individuals would unknowingly consume them, putting their health at grave risk. M&S, in collaboration with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), quickly initiated the recall as a proactive measure to prevent any adverse health events. The integrity of allergen information on food labels is not merely a regulatory requirement but a fundamental consumer safety pillar. When this integrity is compromised, even in a small percentage of products, a recall becomes an absolute necessity. Investigations into how the mis-packaging occurred are typically thorough, aiming to identify the root cause, whether it’s a breakdown in production line segregation, an error in packaging material usage, or an issue within the supply chain. Such incidents, while rare for established retailers like M&S, serve as powerful reminders of the complex challenges in food manufacturing and the continuous need for stringent checks and balances. The immediate and transparent action taken by M&S underscores their dedication to consumer welfare, prioritising health and safety over all other considerations. For individuals with nut allergies, relying on accurate food labelling is essential for managing their dietary choices and preventing allergic reactions. This incident highlights why food manufacturers must maintain robust allergen management systems, including strict segregation protocols and regular audits, to ensure the accuracy of their product information. The recall process also involves notifying relevant regulatory bodies, distributors, and ultimately the public, to ensure the widest possible dissemination of the safety alert. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of the food safety framework that such issues are identified and addressed swiftly, protecting vulnerable consumers from potential harm. The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is a clear example of how seriously the food industry takes allergen control and consumer safety.

Identifying the Affected Products: Batch Codes and Best Before Dates

To ensure consumer safety, it is imperative for customers to be able to identify the specific products impacted by the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall. The recall specifically pertains to the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb in a 175g bag. The critical identifying information to look for on your packaging includes specific batch codes and best before dates, as not all batches of this product are affected. This precise targeting helps to minimise consumer confusion while effectively isolating the potentially contaminated items. Consumers are advised to meticulously check their bags for the following details: the affected product has a Best Before Date of January 2025. Furthermore, the specific batch codes associated with this recall are 00045239 and 00045240. It is crucial to locate these details on the packaging, which are typically printed on the back or bottom of the bag, usually near the barcode or nutritional information. The packaging size, being 175g, is also a key identifier. Visual inspection alone is not sufficient; the batch code and best before date are the definitive markers for identifying the recalled M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb. Shoppers who have purchased this product, particularly those who have a nut allergy or are buying for someone with one, must take the time to verify these details. If you possess a bag of M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb (175g) with a Best Before Date of January 2025 and either batch code 00045239 or 00045240, it is strongly advised not to consume it. Even if you do not have a known allergy, it is best to err on the side of caution due to the potential for severe reactions in others. M&S has made it clear that customers should not rely on the visible appearance of the product, as the issue lies with potential undeclared allergens, which are not visually discernible. The clarity provided on these specific identifiers is a vital part of a successful recall process, enabling consumers to confidently determine if their purchased item is part of the affected stock. This level of detail helps prevent unnecessary waste of unaffected products while ensuring that dangerous items are removed from circulation. Always check the packaging carefully against the official guidance provided by M&S and the Food Standards Agency to ascertain if your product is included in the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall.

Consumer Guidance: What to Do If You Have Purchased the Recalled Item

If you have purchased the affected M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb product, it is paramount to follow the consumer guidance issued by Marks & Spencer and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to ensure your safety and the safety of others. The actions you take are crucial, especially if you or someone in your household has a peanut or nut allergy. The primary directive is clear and unequivocal: Do Not Consume. This is the most important piece of advice stemming from the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall. Consuming this product if you have a nut allergy could lead to a severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening. Therefore, please refrain from eating any M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb (175g) with the Best Before Date of January 2025 and batch codes 00045239 or 00045240.

Do Not Consume: Urgent Safety Warning

The immediate danger associated with the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is the risk to individuals with allergies to peanuts and other nuts. Even trace amounts of these allergens can trigger a severe reaction. It is not worth taking the risk, regardless of how small you perceive the chance of an allergic reaction to be. If you have already consumed the product and experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness, seek urgent medical advice. Keep the product packaging if possible, as it may aid medical professionals in their diagnosis. This stern warning is in place to protect the most vulnerable consumers from serious harm. Dispose of the product safely if you cannot return it, ensuring it doesn’t accidentally get consumed by someone else.

Return for Refund: Simple and Straightforward Process

Marks & Spencer has made the return process for the recalled M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb straightforward and hassle-free. Customers who have purchased the affected product are eligible for a full refund. You do not need a receipt to return the item. Simply take the product back to any M&S store. The store staff will be aware of the recall and will process your refund without issue. This policy is designed to encourage all affected customers to return the product promptly, removing it from circulation and preventing any potential harm. This easy refund policy reflects M&S’s commitment to customer satisfaction and safety, even in challenging circumstances like a product recall.

Contacting M&S Customer Services: For Additional Information

Should you have any further questions or require additional clarification regarding the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall, M&S Customer Services are available to assist you. You can reach them directly by calling their dedicated customer helpline at 03330 148555. Their team will be able to provide detailed information, address specific concerns, and offer guidance on the recall process. This direct line of communication ensures that customers can receive accurate and timely information, helping to alleviate any worries or confusion. Alternatively, information is usually available on the M&S official website, where official statements and FAQs about the recall are typically posted. Utilizing these channels ensures you get the most up-to-date and reliable information directly from the source.

Staying Informed: Check for Updates

It is always advisable to stay informed about product recalls, especially if you have food allergies or purchase products for individuals who do. Both the M&S website (www.marksandspencer.com) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website (www.food.gov.uk) are primary sources for official recall notices and updates. The FSA website, in particular, provides comprehensive information on all food alerts and product recalls in the UK, often detailing the reasons for the recall, the products involved, and the actions consumers should take. Regularly checking these sites can help consumers remain vigilant and make informed decisions about the food they purchase and consume. The proactive dissemination of information is key to managing public health risks associated with food recalls, and consumers play an active role by staying alert and informed about such announcements.

The Broader Implications of Food Recalls and Allergen Management

The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall serves as a potent reminder of the complex and critical nature of food safety, particularly concerning allergen management, within the broader food industry. While this specific incident focuses on undeclared peanuts and nuts, it highlights systemic issues that food manufacturers and retailers constantly strive to mitigate. Food recalls, regardless of their scale, are not isolated events but rather indicators of potential vulnerabilities in an intricate supply chain that stretches from raw material sourcing to final product packaging. The implications extend far beyond the immediate removal of products from shelves, touching upon regulatory compliance, consumer trust, and the financial health of businesses. For consumers, especially those with severe allergies, the accuracy of food labelling is a matter of life and death, reinforcing the importance of absolute precision in ingredient declarations. Every recall underscores the need for continuous improvement in manufacturing processes, quality control checks, and staff training to prevent similar occurrences. It also spotlights the essential role of regulatory bodies like the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which acts as a guardian of public health by overseeing compliance and facilitating rapid communication during food emergencies. The collective effort across the industry, from farm to fork, is aimed at building a robust food safety culture where every stakeholder understands their responsibility in protecting the consumer. The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is a moment for introspection, prompting both the company and the wider industry to review and strengthen their allergen control strategies, ensuring that such incidents become even rarer.

Importance of Allergen Labelling: Legal Requirements and Consumer Trust

Allergen labelling is not merely a recommendation; it is a stringent legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including the UK, mandated by regulations such as the Food Information to Consumers (FIC) Regulation (EU) No ¹¹⁶⁹⁄₂₀₁₁, which is now enshrined in UK law. This legislation demands that manufacturers clearly highlight 14 specified major allergens, including peanuts and nuts, on food packaging. The failure to declare an allergen, as seen in the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall, can have dire consequences, undermining consumer trust significantly. Consumers rely implicitly on the information provided on food labels to make safe dietary choices, especially those managing allergies or intolerances. When this trust is broken, it can be incredibly difficult to rebuild, impacting brand loyalty and reputation. Companies invest heavily in ensuring their labelling is accurate, as any error can lead to not only recalls but also legal penalties and a severe blow to their brand image. The transparency and accuracy of allergen information are foundational to consumer confidence in the food supply, making it a cornerstone of responsible food production and marketing. This incident with the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall serves as a stark reminder of the paramount importance of strict adherence to labelling regulations and the profound impact on consumer health and trust when these are compromised.

Industry Standards and Audits: Preventing Future Incidents

To prevent incidents like the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall, the food industry adheres to rigorous standards and conducts frequent audits throughout its operations. These include Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) systems, and various international food safety management standards such as ISO 22000 and BRCGS Global Standards. These frameworks mandate strict controls over raw materials, production processes, packaging, and personnel hygiene. For allergen management, this translates into dedicated allergen segregation protocols on production lines, thorough cleaning procedures between product changeovers, and robust validation of cleaning effectiveness. Regular internal and external audits are conducted by independent bodies to assess compliance with these standards, identify potential risks, and ensure continuous improvement. These audits verify that allergen control plans are not only in place but also effective and being meticulously followed. The goal is to create multiple layers of protection that minimise the chance of mis-packaging or cross-contamination. While no system can offer 100% infallibility, these comprehensive measures significantly reduce the likelihood of food safety breaches. The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall will undoubtedly trigger an internal review of M&S’s existing protocols and those of its suppliers, looking for areas to further strengthen their defence against similar future events.

Role of the Food Standards Agency (FSA): Ensuring Food Safety

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) plays a pivotal role in ensuring food safety across the UK, acting as the primary governmental body responsible for protecting public health in relation to food. In the context of the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall, the FSA’s involvement is critical. Upon being notified of a potential food safety issue, the FSA assesses the risk to public health and, if deemed necessary, issues a ‘Food Alert for Action’ or an ‘Allergy Alert’. These alerts inform consumers, local authorities, and the food industry about the problem, detailing affected products and recommended actions. The FSA also provides guidance to businesses on how to conduct effective recalls, ensuring that products are quickly and efficiently removed from the supply chain. Beyond reactive measures, the FSA works proactively to set food safety standards, provide scientific advice, and enforce regulations, including those pertaining to allergen labelling. Their oversight helps maintain consumer confidence in the food supply by ensuring that businesses comply with safety laws and that appropriate action is taken when risks emerge. The FSA’s independent role is crucial for impartial assessment and communication, reinforcing the transparency and trustworthiness of the food safety system, which is paramount in managing public health concerns arising from incidents like the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall.

M&S’s Response and Commitment to Consumer Safety

Following the discovery of undeclared peanuts and nuts in some M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb products, Marks & Spencer acted swiftly and decisively to initiate a full product recall. Their response underscores a profound commitment to consumer safety, a cornerstone of their brand reputation. Upon identifying the potential allergen risk, M&S immediately notified the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and issued a public allergy alert, clearly communicating the issue to their customers through various channels, including in-store notices, their website, and press releases. The proactive nature of their response demonstrates a robust internal quality control system and a dedication to transparency. M&S has issued a sincere apology to its customers for any concern or inconvenience this recall may have caused, reinforcing their core value of customer trust. Furthermore, the company has assured customers that they are conducting a thorough investigation to understand how this incident occurred and to implement additional preventative measures to avoid future recurrences. This commitment extends to reviewing their supply chain processes, manufacturing controls, and labelling accuracy protocols, working closely with their suppliers to identify and rectify any vulnerabilities. The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is being managed with the utmost seriousness, reflecting M&S’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality. They have made it simple for affected customers to return the product for a full refund without needing a receipt, further demonstrating their customer-centric approach to managing product issues. This swift and responsible handling of the situation helps to mitigate potential harm to consumers and reinforces their long-standing reputation as a trusted retailer. While incidents like these are regrettable, M&S’s comprehensive and immediate actions serve as a testament to their unwavering focus on product integrity and the well-being of their valued customers. Their proactive communication and straightforward resolution process are vital in maintaining public confidence and demonstrating their continuous pursuit of excellence in all aspects of their operations. The company’s response ensures that the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall is handled with efficiency and care, prioritising customer health above all.

Conclusion

The M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall due to undeclared peanuts and nuts serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges in food safety and allergen management. This incident, while unfortunate, highlights the swift and responsible actions taken by Marks & Spencer, supported by the Food Standards Agency, to protect consumers. For those with nut allergies, the message is clear: do not consume the affected 175g bags of M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb with the Best Before Date of January 2025 and batch codes 00045239 or 00045240. Return the product to any M&S store for a full refund, even without a receipt. This event underscores the paramount importance of accurate allergen labelling, rigorous quality control measures, and constant vigilance across the entire food supply chain. Consumers are encouraged to remain informed by checking official M&S and FSA channels for updates. M&S’s prompt response and commitment to investigating the root cause demonstrate their dedication to upholding the highest standards of product safety and regaining customer trust. Ultimately, the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb recall reinforces the collective responsibility of manufacturers, retailers, and consumers in ensuring a safe and reliable food environment for everyone, especially those vulnerable to severe allergic reactions.