Sainsbury’s recalls own-brand houmous products over E. coli contamination fears

Sainsbury’s is urgently recalling two own-brand houmous lines over potential contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), a dangerous pathogen that can cause severe illness and, in some cases, be fatal.

The recall affects JS Classic Houmous (315g, batch code 8001352, use by 13 September 2025) and JS Lemon & Coriander Houmous (200g, batch code 8062998, use by 14 September 2025).

Sainsbury’s is urging customers not to eat the products and to return them to their local store for a full refund.

A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s said:

We would like to apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.”

The supermarket confirmed that point-of-sale notices are being displayed in all affected stores, explaining the recall and providing guidance for customers.

Recognising STEC and how to stay safe

Symptoms of STEC infection include diarrhoea, abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea. In more severe cases, infection can lead to haemolytic uremic syndrome, a condition that can result in kidney failure.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, England recorded 2,544 cases of STEC infection in 2024, a 26 percent increase on the previous year.

Food safety experts advise strict hygiene measures to help prevent the spread of infection, including handwashing with warm water and soap, keeping preparation areas clean and serving food at correct temperatures.

Consumers with questions about the Sainsbury’s recall can visit sainsburys.co.uk/help or call the retailer’s careline on 0800 028 8303.