Manchester-based Openshaw Superstore has been ordered to pay more than £65,000 after failing to list peanuts as an ingredient in its Suya Peppers Mix product.
The firm, which packed and marketed the spice mix, did not declare the allergen despite the product containing a potentially dangerous amount of peanut.
The case was brought by officers from Hull City Council’s trading standards team and legal services department after they purchased and tested the product.
They subsequently found that the spice mix contained significant amounts of peanut. However, the only ingredient listed on the label was “Suya Peppers Mix”.
Experts commissioned by Hull City Council determined that just 2.5g of the mix, less than a teaspoon, would be enough to trigger an allergic reaction in someone with a peanut allergy.
Operating from Ashton Old Road in Manchester, Openshaw Superstore Limited denied any wrongdoing but later pleaded guilty to two offences relating to breaches of food safety and hygiene regulations when the case was heard at Beverley Magistrates’ Court on 16 June.
The company was fined £45,000 and ordered to pay costs of £18,737, as well as a £2,000 court surcharge.
Councillor Ted Dolman, whose Hull City Council portfolio includes trading standards, said: “For those with an allergy to peanuts, anaphylaxis (an allergic reaction) can be fatal. Failing to label allergens is extremely serious and dangerous.
“This was great work by our trading standards team, who got these products removed from sale and then successfully prosecuted the company responsible. The size of the fine imposed reflects the seriousness of this offence.”
He continued: “The rules regarding allergen labelling are very clear, and there is no excuse for a company being unaware and putting customers at risk.
“It’s important to be clear that while the product was bought at a Hull shop, the vendor was not at fault. The responsibility for correctly labelling food products lies with the companies responsible for packaging and supplying them.”
