TESCO is recalling its 8 Chicken Tsukune Skewers due to a labelling error that could make them unsafe to eat. The packs were labelled with a use-by date of December 23 instead of December 10, which means they are no longer safe to consume after the 10th of December. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned customers who have purchased the chicken skewers not to eat them and to return them to any Tesco store for a full refund. It is essential to never consume food past its use-by date, even if it appears to be alright visually or in terms of smell, as this can pose a significant risk of foodborne illnesses.
The FSA advises against using the “sniff test” as a method to determine if food is safe to eat after its use-by date has passed. Even if food looks and smells fine, it may still be unsafe to consume. Raw chicken, in particular, can be contaminated with various bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, or Clostridium perfringens, which cooking may not necessarily eliminate. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, a high temperature, and an overall feeling of being unwell. It is crucial to recognize visual clues that chicken has spoiled, such as a change in color, the presence of mould, an acidic smell, or a slimy texture.
The FSA provides guidelines for adhering to use-by dates for food, emphasizing that food should not be consumed after the specified date, even if it appears to be safe. Food can be consumed until midnight on the use-by date stated on the product, but not after that time unless it has been cooked or frozen. It is safe to cook food until midnight on the use-by date, then cool and store it in the fridge. Food can be frozen before the use-by date, but it should be cooked within 24 hours of defrosting. Following storage instructions provided on the product is essential, particularly with regards to chilling foods.
Consumers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming food past its use-by date and the importance of following proper food safety guidelines. The recall of Tesco’s 8 Chicken Tsukune Skewers highlights the potential dangers of consuming food that may be past the date when it is considered safe to eat. By being vigilant about expiration dates, following storage instructions, and recognizing signs of spoiled food, individuals can help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. It is crucial to prioritize food safety to protect oneself and others from the harmful effects of consuming contaminated food.
