Co-op sliced pepperoni recalled due to 'possible contamination' with E. coli

This is everything you need to know, and what to do if you’ve been affected.

What has been recalled?

Co-op is recalling packs of its Co-op Sliced Pepperoni due to the presence of E. coli 0157 that has been found in the product.

This recall affects pack sizes of 70g, with a use by date of May 19, 2020.

What should I do if I have a recalled pack?

If you have bought a pack of sliced pepperoni that’s now being recalled, you are advised not to eat it - instead, you should return the product to your nearest Co-op store for a refund.

Due to the ongoing lockdown rules and social distancing measures, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) recommends that those affected by the recall should phone 0800 0686 727 or email customer.careline@coop.co.uk to arrange a refund.

“If customers are making an essential trip to the store from where it was bought, they can return the item in-store for a full refund,” the FSA states.

What risk does E. coli pose?

The specific strain of E. coli found in the recalled pepperoni slices is called E. coli 0157.

The NHS explains that E. coli 0157 is a “bacterial infection that can cause severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea and kidney failure”.

Symptoms of E. coli 0157 include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and occasionally a fever.

“About half of people with the infection will have bloody diarrhoea,” states the NHS.

People with the infection will notice symptoms about three to four days after being infected and these symptoms can last up to two weeks.

“A small number of people with E. coli 0157 infection go on to develop a serious condition called haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). This can sometimes lead to kidney failure and death, although this is rare,” the NHS says.

There is no specific treatment for E. coli 0157 infection - people with the infection can usually be cared for at home and get better without any medical treatment.

However, you should phone your GP or call NHS 111 if you experience bloody diarrhoea.