More ‘Almond Protein’ Recalls Prompts Further Investigations

19 Feb 2015 --- A series of Food Standard Agency (FSA) product recalls involving traces of almond protein found in cumin has triggered a wider investigation into food manufacturing and supply chain processes.

The latest recall comes from Tesco Ireland, which is recalling batches of its Fajitas Meal Kit (475g) because almond protein was detected in the seasoning mix, which is not declared on the label. In its recall statement, published by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, it explains that “these batches may be unsafe for consumers who are allergic to or intolerant of almond or its constituents”.

This announcement follows a series of recalls regarding almond protein which had found its way into ground cumin or paprika (this is still under investigation), and then later found its way into various spice mixes, specifically used for fajita meal kits.

Traces were found in a Morrison’s fajita meal kit last week and also an Aldi Fiesta brand fajita dinner kit. After this, a batch of Discovery Taco Seasoning was recalled, supplied by Swedish-owned spice company Santa Maria UK. 

The company issued a statement confirming it had recalled its mix on a precautionary basis as it may contain almond protein, which is not declared within the allergy advice on the label. 

“The health of our customers is our priority and we are advising those who have bought the product, and have an allergy to almonds or other nuts, not to eat it, but to return it to the store for a full refund.

“This decision has been made on the back of an extensive testing process into the possible presence of almond protein and no other Discovery products are known to be affected.”

Separately, batches of ground cumin sold by The Barts Ingredients Company have been recalled; the FSA is investigating the supply chain of both cumin and paprika. 

The FSA has confirmed that only very small traces of almond protein have been found. 

Adulteration of cumin with peanut and almond has also been reported in the USA and Canada, according to media reports. 

Jason Feeney, the FSA’s COO, said that at this stage there has been no evidence of food fraud. “The FSA is investigating these incidents and, where potential problems are identified, we are alerting the public,” he said. “We are dealing with this as part of our normal incident response, and our first priority is for the safety of allergic consumers.”