Waitrose Recalls Hot Cross Buns Due to Undeclared Barley in Labelling Error

Waitrose has recalled its 4 Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns because the product contains barley not listed on the packaging. The supermarket chain warned customers with barley allergies to avoid the buns carrying a best-before date of 06 June 2026. The Food Standards Agency issued an allergy alert after the labelling error.

The agency stated that the undeclared allergen poses a potential health hazard for individuals with barley sensitivity. Waitrose has contacted allergy support organisations to inform their members about the recall. The company instructed customers: "Do not consume.

Package up the item. " Shoppers can return the buns to any Waitrose store for a full refund without proof of purchase. Customers seeking more information can call Waitrose Customer Care on 0800 188 884 and select option 4.

Barley belongs to a group of cereals that contain gluten, alongside wheat, rye and oats. " Reactions to these grains can include immediate allergic responses, delayed allergic reactions, coeliac disease, and gluten sensitivity. Medical professionals typically advise patients on whether they need to eliminate multiple grains from their diet.

British food labelling regulations require manufacturers to declare barley and other allergens on all packaged and processed food products. Days ago, Gü recalled its Double Sea Salted Caramel Frozen Dessert due to the possible presence of undeclared hazelnuts and soya lecithin. The affected product is sold in a 2 x 85g pack size with lot number 126135 and a best-before date of 30 June 2027.

Consumers with nut or soya allergies face a potential health risk from the mislabelled dessert. Those who purchased the item can return it to the shop where it was bought for a complete refund without a receipt.