London's First & Last Bakery has issued an urgent recall of its tomato sauce products following the discovery of potential botulism contamination that could pose a serious health risk to consumers.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has triggered a nationwide alert after identifying that the sauce may contain the dangerous bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can cause life-threatening botulism poisoning.
Affected Products and Immediate Actions
The recall affects all batches of the bakery's tomato sauce with specific concern around products sold between specific dates. Customers who have purchased these items are being urged to:
- Immediately dispose of any remaining sauce
- Not consume the product under any circumstances
- Return the item to the bakery for a full refund
- Contact healthcare providers if concerned about consumption
Understanding the Botulism Threat
Botulism represents one of the most severe forms of food poisoning, with symptoms that can include:
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Facial weakness on both sides of the face
- Blurred or double vision
- Breathing difficulties
- Paralysis that spreads downward
Medical attention should be sought immediately if any of these symptoms appear after consuming the recalled product, as botulism can be fatal without prompt treatment.
Official Response and Consumer Guidance
The FSA has confirmed that all remaining stock has been removed from shelves while investigations continue into how the contamination occurred. A spokesperson for the regulatory body stated: "We are working closely with the business to ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect consumers."
First & Last Bakery has apologised to customers and assured the public that they are cooperating fully with food safety authorities to resolve the situation promptly.
