Warning to millions after labelling mistake on Waitrose dessert

A recall notice has been issued A branch of Waitrose Waitrose is recalling a dessert which has undeclared ingredients that could prove dangerous for some people. Waitrose & Partners are recalling packs of 4 Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns because the product contains barley which is not declared on the label. ‌ The recall covers any pack with a best-before date of June 6. Waitrose is recalling the product from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall. ‌ Notices in store will explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product. A Food Standards Agency spokesman said: "If you have bought the product and have an allergy to barley do not eat it. Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund. ‌ "No receipt required. For more information, please contact: Waitrose Customer Care 0800 188 884, option 4." The spokesman added: "Sometimes there will be a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold. Then it might be 'withdrawn' (taken off the shelves) or 'recalled' (when customers are asked to return the product). Sometimes foods have to be withdrawn or recalled if there is a risk to consumers because the allergy labelling is missing or incorrect or if there is any other food allergy risk. When there is a food allergy risk, the FSA will issue an Allergy Alert." Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a major cereal grain and a member of the grass family. It was one of the first cultivated grains in human history. Unlike wheat, which is heavily relied on for fluffy breads, barley has a chewier texture and a distinctively nutty flavour. In the UK and globally, it is primarily used in brewing beer and distilling whiskey, for thickening soups, stews, and broths and for feeding livestock. ‌ A true, IgE-mediated barley allergy (where the immune system mistakes barley proteins for a dangerous invader and triggers a swift, potentially severe reaction) is actually very rare. Because it is so rare on its own, UK health agencies like the Food Standards Agency (FSA) do not have a specific, isolated headcount for only barley allergies. Instead, it is grouped into broader categories. Under UK food law, barley is classified as one of the 14 major allergens because it contains gluten. It is grouped alongside wheat, rye, and oats.