Kinder Surprise recall over salmonella outbreak risk: what to do

Ferrero is taking the precautionary action of recalling selected batches of Kinder Surprise because they might be contaminated with salmonella. Only Kinder Surprise products manufactured in Belgium are affected.

It relates to Kinder Surprise pack sizes 20g and 20g x 3m, of all best before dates between July 11 and October 7, 2022.

Symptoms of salmonellosis typically resolve themselves within a few days and include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. However, symptoms can be more severe and lead to hospitalisation, especially in the very young and those with weakened immune systems.

What to do if you have bought one

The Food Standards Agency, along with Food Standards Scotland, are advising customers to take action if they have bought this product, and return it to the store where they purchased it.

This is in connection with a potential link to a salmonella outbreak, with a number of the cases involving young children.

Investigations led by UK Health Security Agency, Public Health Scotland, Public Health Wales and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland have found a link between reported cases of salmonella poisoning across the UK and the specific product produced by the Ferrero company.

In response to this, Ferrero has taken the precautionary step to undertake a product withdrawal and recall with immediate effect whilst investigations continue.

The product thought to be affected have all been manufactured at the same factory. Other products manufactured by Kinder are not thought to be affected.

What the authorities have said

Tina Potter, FSA head of incidents, said: "We welcome the precautionary approach being taken by Ferrero and are advising consumers not to eat any of the products listed in the FSA alert. It is really important that consumers follow this advice to avoid the risk of becoming ill with salmonella poisoning.

“We know that these particular products are popular with young children, especially as Easter approaches, so we would urge parents and guardians of children to check if any products already in their home are affected by this recall.

"The food business involved has voluntarily carried out this product withdrawal and recall and we are working closely with them and their competent authorities to identify the precise cause of this outbreak. We are also working closely with UK and international partners including UKHSA and Food Standards Scotland.”

Dr Lesley Larkin, surveillance lead for gastrointestinal pathogens and food safety (One Health) at UKHSA, said it was also work with international public health and food safety authorities to ensure that the risk to the public is minimised.

“Symptoms of salmonellosis typically resolve themselves within a few days. However, symptoms can be more severe, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.

"Anybody with concerns that they have symptoms of salmonellosis should contact their GP or call NHS 111.

"Salmonella can be spread from person to person, so anyone affected should adhere to good hygiene practice such as washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoiding handling food for others where possible, if you have symptoms," she added.