Waitrose is urgently recalling these packs of almonds over fears they contain Salmonella

Supermarket giant Waitrose is recalling packets of almonds sold in its stores over fears they may contain salmonella.

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The urgent recall comes after salmonella was found in packets of Waitrose Duchy Organic Almonds.

Affected packets weigh 150g and have a best before date of 28 July 2020.

People poisoned with salmonella are at risk of developing a fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.

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The Food Standards Agency said in a statement: "The product listed above may be contaminated with salmonella. Symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.

"Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product."

Waitrose and Partners has apologised, and said all customers who return the product will be due a full refund.

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Treating Salmonella and food poisoning

Salmonella is a genus of bacteria. Some types of salmonella can cause salmonellosis - one of the most common types of food poisoning in Europe.

Symptoms usually start within a few days of eating a contaminated substance, and can last up to a week. They can often include:

NauseaDiarrhoeaVomitingStomach crampsFeverTiredness, aches, and chills

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Food poisoning is rarely serious enough to warrant hospitalisation, and most cases can be treated at home, according to the NHS.

It is important for people suffering from salmonellosis to drink plenty of fluids while they recover, to avoid complications from dehydration.

It recommends staying away from work or school until the symptoms have stopped for two days, since this is when you are most infectious.

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Food product recalls explained

According to the Food Standards Authority, if there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be 'withdrawn'. This means that the product is taken off the shelves so that no more of it can be sold.

The FSA might also decide to “recall” the food, meaning that it is withdrawn from shelves, and customers are also asked to return the product to the shop where they bought it.

The FSA issues Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food.

In some cases, a 'Food Alert for Action' is issued. This provides local authorities with details of specific actions to be taken on behalf of consumers.