Marks & Spencer recalls chocolate over contamination concerns

United Kingdom (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Marks & Spencer (M&S) has recalled its Milk Chocolate Honeycomb snack due to undeclared peanuts, posing a serious health risk to allergy sufferers. Customers are urged not to eat the product and to return it for a full refund.

Marks & Spencer Recalls Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Over Peanut Contamination

Marks & Spencer has issued a nationwide recall of its Milk Chocolate Honeycomb product after the discovery of undeclared peanuts in certain packs, which poses a significant health risk to individuals with peanut allergies. This recall was confirmed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and covered by multiple media outlets, including New Food Magazine by journalist Ben Cornwell and The News of the Day.​

The affected product is the 120g pack of Milk Chocolate Honeycomb, with lot number 5242 and a best-before date of 12 May 2026. M&S emphasised that no other batches or products are included in this recall.​

Health Risk from Undeclared Peanuts

Peanut allergy is one of the most serious food allergies globally, with even trace amounts capable of triggering severe or life-threatening reactions, particularly in children and highly sensitive individuals. According to the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), peanuts remain the most common food allergy in children under 18 and the third most common in adults.​

The unexpected presence of peanuts in the Milk Chocolate Honeycomb product constitutes a major risk for allergy sufferers who would otherwise consider this treat safe to consume.

Marks & Spencer’s Response and Consumer Actions

As reported by Ben Cornwell of New Food Magazine, a spokesperson for Marks & Spencer said: “Customer safety is of paramount importance to Marks & Spencer and we take all issues regarding the production of our foods extremely seriously. In the abundance of caution, M&S is recalling milk chocolate honeycomb due to the possible presence of undeclared peanuts in a small number of packs. We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused”.​

M&S has launched a customer information campaign including in-store point-of-sale notices advising purchasers not to consume the product. Consumers who have bought the affected packs are advised to return them to their nearest M&S store for a full refund. The retailer provides a customer helpline at 03330 148555 for further queries.​

Official Food Safety Alert by the Food Standards Agency

The Food Standards Agency issued an official food safety alert on October 15, 2025, confirming the recall of the Milk Chocolate Honeycomb due to undeclared peanuts. The FSA’s alert emphasises the potential health dangers posed by the mislabelling to peanut allergy sufferers and instructs consumers to refrain from eating the product and to return it if purchased.​

Context of Product Recalls in UK Retail Food Sector

This latest recall highlights continued vigilance by UK supermarkets and food authorities to protect consumers from allergen mislabelling and contamination risks. Recalls for undeclared allergens are unfortunately a recurrent issue, especially with popular food items like chocolates and snacks.

Previously in 2025, Tesco recalled Free From Breadcrumbs for undeclared wheat (gluten), posing risks to allergy and coeliac customers. Similar measures were implemented promptly to safeguard consumers.​

Marks & Spencer’s swift recall action reflects the high priority placed on consumer safety across the retail industry.