First, there was the negative publicity that accompanied the recall of a batch of jars of Loyd Grossman Korma sauce. This came after two children from the same family in Scotland were hospitalised because they had contracted Clostridium botulinum after consuming the product.

The Loyd Grossman range is one of the eight so-called power brands that have been identified for investment by the new chief executive Michael Clarke in a bid to revitalise the firm's profits in tough trading conditions.

However, the recall was swiftly followed by some city analysts casting doubt on Clarke's power brand strategy.

Foodmanufacture.co.uk reported Clive Black at Shore Capital, who questioned Premier's ability to recoup significant cash to reduce the firm's debt by selling off non-core businesses to concentrate on its eight power brands.

Black said: "In credit- and consumer-constrained markets it is hard to see how top-of-the market prices can be achieved and it remains our view that all of Premier Foods is effectively for sale."

Premier's eight power brands are: Ambrosia, Batchelor's, Bisto, Hovis, Loyd Grossman, Mr Kipling, Sharwood's and Oxo.