UK supermarkets are recalling all Primula cheese tubes

Cheese spread may sound like a great idea on top of some crackers for an afternoon snack. But, be sure to steer clear of Primula as UK supermarkets are recalling all of the brand's cheese tubes.

What products are included?

The UK Food Standards Agency has announced the recall of the products due to a production fault resulting in the potential contamination of clostridium botulinum.

The site included a list of the Primula products being recalled including both refrigerated and ambient (non-refrigerated) items. Note that no batch numbers or dates are specified as all products are being recalled:

- Primula Plain Original Cheese Spread
- Primula Cheese Spread with Smoked Paprika
- Primula Cheese Spread with Jalapeno
- Primula Light Cheese Spread
- Primula Cheese Spread with Ham
- Primula Cheese Spread with Chives
- Primula Cheese Spread with Prawn
- Primula Original Cheese Spread (ambient)
- Primula Cheese Spread with Ham (ambient)
- Primula Cheese spread with Chives (ambient)

What are the risks?

The risk statement associated with the product recall has stated that there was an issue with the production of the product in that controls and prevents the growth of clostridium botulinum which, if ingested, could result in a potentially fatal form of food poisoning called botulism.

clostridium botulinum, or c. botulinum can survive for years at a time in low oxygen conditions. The spores of c. botulinum is commonly found in a dormant state but poses a risk once they become active. The spores are often found on the surfaces of fruit and vegetables as well as in sediment worldwide but can be produced in food, especially canned goods if the product was not sealed correctly.

What are the symptoms?

Once ingested, the bacteria is responsible for botulism, a highly toxic disease that can result in paralysation. Symptoms often occur 12-36 hours after consumption. The NHS urges anyone who has show signs of this neurotoxin should seek treatment immediately. Early symptoms include:

- vomiting
- diarrhoea or constipation
- stomach cramps

If early symptoms are left untreated they could develop to include:

- blurry or doubled vision
- drooping eyelids
- slurred speech
- muscle weakness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing

All retail stores that are carrying the product will now be issuing signs detailing the recall and if you have otherwise purchased the product it is recommended that you contact Primula on 0800 716 551 or primula@kavli.co.uk for a refund or even visit the store you purchased it from the item can also be returned for a full refund.