Why products are recalled
The reasons behind Irish product recalls, explained in plain English — what each hazard is, the health risks, how it leads to a recall, and what to do. Each guide links to the current recalls we track for that cause.
Bacteria & contamination
ListeriaA bacterium that causes listeriosis, a rare but serious infection that is especially dangerous in pregnancy and for older or immunocompromised people.SalmonellaA common cause of food poisoning (salmonellosis), usually from raw poultry, eggs and meat, that can be serious for the very young, older people and anyone with a weakened immune system.E. coli (STEC/VTEC)Most E. coli are harmless, but Shiga toxin–producing strains (STEC/VTEC) can cause severe illness and, in children, kidney failure.
Allergens
See the full list of the 14 declarable food allergens →
MilkOne of the 14 allergens that must be declared on food. Undeclared milk is a common reason for allergen recalls and a real risk for people with a milk allergy.EggsA common childhood allergen that must be declared on food; undeclared egg is a frequent cause of allergen recalls.PeanutsOne of the most common causes of severe, life-threatening food allergy; even trace amounts of undeclared peanut can trigger a reaction.Tree nutsAlmonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews and other tree nuts are a declarable allergen distinct from peanuts, and a common cause of severe reactions.Gluten (cereals)Cereals containing gluten (wheat, barley, rye and others) must be declared; undeclared gluten is a serious risk for people with coeliac disease.SoyaA widely used ingredient and one of the 14 declarable allergens; undeclared soya is a common recall reason.SesameAn increasingly recognised allergen that can cause severe reactions and is often hidden in breads, dips and spice mixes.MustardA declarable allergen hidden in sauces, marinades and spice blends that can cause severe reactions in sensitised people.CeleryCelery (including celeriac and celery seed) is a declarable allergen often hidden in stocks, soups and spice mixes.SulphitesPreservatives (sulphur dioxide and sulphites) that must be declared above a set level and can trigger breathing problems, especially in people with asthma.FishA declarable allergen that can cause severe reactions and is often hidden in sauces, stocks and seasonings.CrustaceansPrawns, crab, lobster and other crustaceans are a declarable shellfish allergen and a common cause of severe, often adult-onset reactions.MolluscsMussels, oysters, squid and other molluscs are a declarable shellfish allergen that can cause severe reactions.LupinA legume flour used in some baked goods and gluten-free products that is a declarable allergen and can cross-react with peanut.
Chemical hazards
PhthalatesChemicals used to soften plastics that are restricted in toys and childcare items; products are recalled when levels exceed safe limits.LeadA toxic metal restricted in consumer products; items such as cheap jewellery and toys are recalled when lead content or migration exceeds limits.CadmiumA toxic metal and carcinogen restricted in consumer goods; cheap metal jewellery and similar items are recalled when cadmium exceeds limits.