Allergy Alert: Hazelnuts adn Almonds Found in Ground Cloves – Spain Issues Warning
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Consumers with hazelnut and almond allergies are being cautioned about a potentially perilous mislabeling issue affecting a batch of ground cloves sold under the manjares and Jorge brands. The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) issued the alert this Tuesday, following a notification from health authorities in the valencian Community.
The affected product is ‘Ground clove’, sold by Manjares and Jorge, bearing batch number 23053J and an expiration date of February 2026. The spice is packaged in a 37-gram glass container.
Initial Distribution and Potential Spread
According to AESAN, the initial distribution of the mislabeled product focused on the autonomous communities of Extremadura, the Valencian Community, Castilla-La Mancha, and Andalusia. Though,authorities acknowledge the possibility of further redistribution to other regions within Spain.
Consumer Advisory and Risk Assessment
The AESAN has strongly advised individuals with known allergies to hazelnuts and almonds to refrain from consuming the affected batch of ground cloves if they have it in their possession. “People with allergies to hazelnuts and almonds… should refrain from consuming it,” a senior official stated. Importantly, the agency has clarified that the product poses no risk to individuals without these specific allergies.
The mislabeling occurred due to an accidental inclusion of hazelnuts and almonds during the processing or packaging of the ground cloves. The exact cause is still under investigation. The AESAN initiated the alert after receiving reports of allergic reactions from consumers in the Valencian Community who had consumed the product.
Rapid data exchange and Product Recall
This critical food safety information was disseminated through the coordinated System for Rapid Information Exchange (SCIRI), a mechanism designed to facilitate swift action in cases of potential health hazards. The system is currently being utilized to verify the withdrawal of the affected products from retail channels.
as of Wednesday, AESAN confirmed that Manjares and Jorge have begun a voluntary recall of the affected batch from stores across the initially identified regions. Consumers who purchased the product are advised to return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. The AESAN is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
This incident underscores the importance of accurate food labeling and the potential severity of undeclared allergens. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and check product packaging carefully, especially if they have food allergies or sensitivities.
