Lidl hash browns recalled over metal contamination and choking risk

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Lidl has issued an urgent recall of one of its hash brown products after discovering it may contain pieces of metal, posing a potential choking hazard to consumers.

The recall affects 750g packs of Harvest Basket Hash Browns, batch code 5144L, with a best before date of 24 May 2027. The product has been withdrawn from shelves across the UK.

The recall affects only this specific batch and Lidl has confirmed that no other products in its range are impacted.

Credit: Lidl

The retailer has issued point of sale notices, in all affected Lidl stores, advising customers of the risk and recall process.

In the notice, Lidl stated: “Lidl GB is recalling the above-mentioned product due to the potential presence of foreign bodies (metal) which may present a choking hazard.”

They added: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your cooperation.”

The FSA reinforced the warning, stating: “If you have bought the above product, do not eat it. Instead, return it to your nearest store for a full refund.”

For further information about the recall, contact Lidl Customer Care at [email protected] or call 0203 966 5566.

Week of food safety alerts

This development follows a series of food safety alerts issued by the FSA this week. A range of Jolly Rancher sweets, manufactured by US-based The Hershey Company, were recalled after being found to contain banned mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) – substances that are prohibited in food under UK law due to links with DNA damage and increased cancer risk.

Additionally, the FSA has warned allergy sufferers about certain Dubai-style imported chocolate products that may not comply with UK labelling standards. The UK watchdog has advised consumers to check labels carefully and stick with trusted retailers.