Marks & Spencer (M&S) has recalled one of its popular confectionery items — the Milk Chocolate Honeycomb — after discovering it may contain undeclared peanuts.
The recall, issued in coordination with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), is a precautionary measure following concerns that the product’s packaging failed to mention the possible presence of peanuts, posing a health risk for people with nut allergies.
The affected product is sold in 120g bags with a best before date of 12 May 2026, lot number 5242, and barcode 0917568/29143603.
The FSA has warned consumers with peanut allergies not to eat the snack and to return it to their nearest M&S store for a full refund.
What led to the recall?
The FSA issued an Allergy Alert after identifying that the product might contain peanuts — a major allergen not listed on the label. This makes it unsafe for anyone with a peanut allergy or intolerance.
M&S has taken immediate action by withdrawing the item from sale and notifying customers through point-of-sale notices in stores. These notices explain why the recall has been initiated and outline the steps affected customers should take.
According to the FSA, M&S has also contacted allergy support organisations to ensure that members who may be affected are promptly informed.
Consumers who purchased the product have been asked to return it to stores for a full refund and can contact 03330 148555 for further information.
How the FSA manages allergy alerts
The Food Standards Agency is responsible for protecting public health when food products pose a risk due to mislabelling or contamination.
When a food item contains undeclared allergens, it triggers an Allergy Alert or Product Recall Notice — both designed to inform consumers quickly and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
In this instance, the FSA issued a “do not eat” warning to ensure that consumers with peanut allergies avoid the chocolate snack entirely. Even trace amounts of peanuts can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
The agency’s system of alerts requires the food producer or retailer to take immediate action. This can include removing the product from shelves, issuing customer notifications, and coordinating with allergy networks to reach vulnerable consumers.
Why allergen labelling matters
Under UK food law, retailers must clearly display any ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions. Peanuts are among the 14 allergens that must be highlighted in ingredient lists. Any omission, even accidental, can result in a national recall.
The introduction of Natasha’s Law in 2021 strengthened these labelling standards after the death of teenager Natasha Ednan-Laperouse from a severe allergic reaction to an undeclared ingredient in a sandwich.
The law requires full ingredient lists and allergen declarations on all prepacked food for direct sale.
While the M&S recall affects only a limited number of packs, it highlights the continuing importance of accurate allergen disclosure in the retail food industry.
For major brands, even isolated cases of labelling errors can damage consumer confidence and invite regulatory scrutiny.
What customers should do
Anyone who has purchased the M&S Milk Chocolate Honeycomb should check the product’s packaging details — 120g bag, best before 12 May 2026, lot 5242, barcode 0917568/29143603.
If it matches these details and the buyer has a peanut allergy, they are advised not to eat the product.
Customers can return the item to any M&S store for a full refund, with or without a receipt. The company has reassured customers that no other M&S confectionery products are affected.
On its website, the retailer describes the snack as a,
Velvety milk chocolate coating over a light and airy honeycomb centre that dissolves on the tongue.
However, due to the undeclared allergen risk, the item has now been withdrawn nationwide.
M&S said the recall was issued “in the abundance of caution” after identifying that a small number of packs may have been contaminated during production. The company apologised to customers and reiterated that consumer safety remains its top priority.
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