Sainsbury's and Argos recall TU Tote Bags over chemical risk

Shoppers are being urged to stop using certain bags sold through Sainsbury's and Argos due to a “serious chemical risk”. The supermarket has recalled the affected TU Tote Shopper Bags.

The recall covers three shopper bags in brown, tan and black, which have specific SKU and item numbers. Full details have been provided for customers to check if they have any of the products.

Warning from the Office for Product Safety and Standards

The Office for Product Safety and Standards, which has also shared the warning, said: “The products present a serious chemical risk because they contain excessive concentrations of phthalates. Phthalates may harm the health of children, potentially causing damage to the reproductive system.

“The products do not meet the requirements of the REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008. The products have been recalled from end users by Argos and Sainsbury’s. We recommend that you stop using the products immediately and return them to your nearest Sainsbury’s or Argos store for a full refund.”

Sainsbury's statement on the recall

In its warning notice, Sainsbury’s said: “Sainsbury’s are recalling the above products due to excessive concentrations of phthalates, which pose a chemical safety risk. Prolonged exposure to phthalates may be harmful to human health. As a result, the products do not meet Sainsbury’s safety requirements.”

The products were sold through selected Sainsbury's stores, the Tu website and the Argos website. Customers who have purchased any of these items are being asked to stop using them and return them to their local Sainsbury’s store for a full refund. For further details or if you have any questions, customers can visit Sainsburys.co.uk/help or contact the careline on 0800 028 8303.

The notice adds: “Please share this recall notice with anyone who may have purchased, received or used one of these products. No other products have been affected by this issue. Sainsbury’s would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”