Tesco shoppers have been warned not to eat a popular salad after it was recalled over fears of possible E. coli contamination. The supermarket has recalled its Tesco Finest Mozzarella Pearls & Pesto Orzo Salad after a possible contamination was identified.
Urgent warning for today's use-by date
The warning is particularly urgent for customers checking their fridges today, August 27, as one of the affected batches carries a use-by date of today. The recall applies to 215g packs of the salad with use-by dates of August 25, August 26 and August 27, 2026.
Customers who have bought any of the affected packs have been told not to eat them and should instead return the product to any Tesco store for a full refund.
Health risks and symptoms
E. coli can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including severe diarrhoea, which can sometimes contain blood, as well as stomach pain, vomiting and dehydration. In some cases, the infection can lead to haemolytic uremic syndrome, also known as HUS. The serious condition can cause kidney failure and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
Advice for those affected
People who have already eaten the affected salad have been advised to watch for symptoms. Anyone who develops bloody diarrhoea, persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration should seek medical advice, with NHS 111 available for urgent guidance. Those who become unwell should also stay away from work, while children should be kept off school or nursery, for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.
The recall was highlighted by consumer group Which? on August 25 as part of its latest round-up of product safety alerts. Its advice to anyone with an affected pack is clear: "If you have bought the above product do not eat it. Instead, return it to any Tesco store for a full refund."
