Our recommended personal injury solicitors deal with undeclared allergen risk claims nationwide. Contact us for a free consultation. Call 0333 888 0408 or email info@sbclaims.co.uk.
M&S recalls yoghurt over an undeclared allergen risk
Marks & Spencer has issued an urgent recall of one of its yoghurt products after discovering it may contain an undeclared allergen, posing a potential health risk to some consumers.
The recall is for Marks & Spencer Authentic Greek Yoghurt with Vanilla (500g), with a use‑by date of 12 May 2026. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed that the product may contain gluten, which is not listed on the product’s labelling.
This labelling error means the product could be dangerous for individuals with coeliac disease, a gluten intolerance, or a gluten allergy. Customers who fall within these categories have been advised not to consume the product and to return it to the store they purchased it from for a full refund.
Why undeclared allergens are so serious
Food producers and retailers have strict legal duties to identify allergens clearly on packaging. Accurate labelling is vital, especially for people whose health depends on knowing exactly what a product contains. In the UK, allergen information is regulated under food safety legislation, requiring clear disclosure of the 14 major allergens. Where products are incorrectly labelled, the consequences can be significant for consumers.
For someone with Coeliac disease, for instance, eating gluten can trigger an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhoea, and nutrient malabsorption, and cause long‑term damage to the digestive system. Even very small amounts of gluten can be harmful, so accurate labelling is essential rather than simply helpful.
For people with food allergies, the risks can be even more immediate. Undeclared allergens may trigger reactions ranging from hives and swelling to breathing difficulties and Anaphylaxis—a rapid, life-threatening emergency requiring urgent treatment, often with adrenaline. Because reactions can occur unexpectedly and escalate quickly, consumers must be able to rely on packaging information with confidence.
This is why precautionary recalls — such as those involving undeclared allergens — are taken extremely seriously. They are not technical labelling issues but essential safety measures designed to prevent avoidable illness and, in some cases, potentially life-threatening harm.
Taking legal action for compensation
Although recalls are intended to reduce further risk, they do not remove responsibility if harm has already been caused.
A legal claim for compensation may be possible where:
- A product was incorrectly labelled
- A consumer relied on that labelling
- An allergic reaction or other harm occurred as a result
What can I claim for?
If you suffer illness or injury after consuming a food product containing an undeclared allergen, you may be entitled to claim compensation depending on the circumstances of your case. Claims are assessed on a case-by-case basis. This can include:
- Compensation for Pain and suffering
Compensation for the physical symptoms experienced, such as allergic reactions, gastrointestinal illness, breathing difficulties, or longer‑term health effects. - Medical expenses
This can include the cost of GP appointments, hospital treatment, or medication. - Loss of earnings
If you were unable to work due to your symptoms, you may be able to recover lost income, including future loss where your condition has ongoing consequences. - Travel expenses
If you incur travel costs for attending medical appointments, then these can be reclaimed.
How Slee Blackwell can help with your food allergy claim
Slee Blackwell specialises in food allergy claims, including cases involving allergen mislabelling. We have extensive experience acting for individuals who have suffered avoidable harm due to failures in food safety standards.
If you or a family member have been affected by an undeclared allergen in a food product, please do not hesitate to contact our free legal helpline. Our five-star rated solicitors are here to provide you with a free consultation on a No Win No Fee basis.
Call us on 0333 888 0408 or send an email to info@sbclaims.co.uk.
