High Street bakery chain Greggs has issued a product recall for some of its steak bakes after a mistake in the packaging process. Greggs is recalling Greggs 2 pack Steak Bakes because they contains sulphites which are not declared on the label.
Due to a packaging error, some packs contain Sausage, Bean and Cheese Melts instead of Steak Bakes – and the melts contain sulphites. The product is a possible health risk for anyone with a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide and/or sulphites.
The recall covers 280g packs with a nest before date of May 19, 2025.
Greggs is recalling the product from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall. The company has also issued a point-of-sale notice to its customers. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.
If you have bought the Steak Bakes and have a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide and/or sulphites do not consume it. Instead return it to your nearest Iceland store from where it was bought for a full refund. For further information, contact Customer Care on +08081 473 447 or [email protected]
Sulphites and sulphur dioxide are chemical compounds commonly used as preservatives in food and drinks. Sulphites are a group of sulphur-containing compounds, including sulphur dioxide, sodium sulphite, sodium bisulphite, and sodium metabisulphite.
They are used to prevent spoilage, maintain colour, and extend shelf life in various products like wine, dried fruits, processed foods, and condiments.Sulphur dioxide is a gas with a sharp, pungent smell, often used in gaseous or dissolved form.It is primarily used in winemaking, as it inhibits bacterial growth and helps preserve the wine’s flavour.
Sulphites are safe for most people, but some individuals, especially those with asthma or sulphite sensitivity, can have adverse reactions. Symptoms include hives, swelling, stomach upset, difficulty breathing, or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
It’s estimated that 1-2% of the general population is sensitive to sulphites.Among individuals with asthma, the prevalence is higher, ranging from 5-10%.
Sometimes there will be a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold. Then it might be ‘withdrawn’ (taken off the shelves) or ‘recalled’ (when customers are asked to return the product). Sometimes foods have to be withdrawn or recalled if there is a risk to consumers because the allergy labelling is missing or incorrect or if there is any other food allergy risk. When there is a food allergy risk, the FSA will issue an Allergy Alert.