Packs of Aberdeen Angus Beef Meatballs have been recalled from customers after they were found to contain burgers instead. The mistake means the product could pose a health risk to some, as the burgers contain wheat (gluten) which is not mentioned on the label.
A notice issued by the Food Standards Agency said: “The packaging states that the product is gluten free which is incorrect. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with coeliac disease, and/or an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten.”
The recall applies to 288g packs labelled as containing 12 meatballs, which were sold in Booths stores in England. They have a use by date of August 13, 2025.
The notice added: “If you have bought the above product and have an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten, do not eat it.
“Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund.”
Around one in 100 people int he UK are estimated to have coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. Many are thought to be undiagnosed.
The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue after identifying substances inside gluten as a threat.
This can cause damage to the surface of the intestines, disrupting the body’s ability to take in nutrients from food.
Gluten is commonly found in pasta, cakes, breakfast cereals, most types of bread, some sauces and some ready meals.
Eating such foods can trigger symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach aches, bloating and indigestion for sufferers.