Ferrero recalls UK Kinder Surprise chocolate egg over salmonella fear

[LONDON] Italian confectionary group Ferrero has recalled Kinder Surprise chocolate eggs from British shelves 2 weeks before Easter after a possible link was found to dozens of reported cases of salmonella.

The recall affects single and multipack Kinder Surprise eggs, a popular treat marketed at children containing small collectible toys inside a chocolate shell.

"We are voluntarily recalling selected batches of Kinder Surprise as a precautionary step, since we have become aware of a possible link to a number of reported cases of salmonella," the recall notice said.

Ferrero said the affected chocolate was manufactured in Belgium and the recall may be extended to other countries.

It comes as confectionary brands battle for space on supermarkets shelves in the run up to Easter, marked by many in Britain by buying and eating chocolate eggs.

Britain's Food Standards Agency (FSA) advised customers not to eat the affected products, which carry 'Best Before' dates between Jul 11 and Oct 7.

At least 63 cases of illness linked to the products had been identified, the majority of which are children under 5 years old, the UK Health Security Agency said.

"We know that these particular products are popular with young children, especially as Easter approaches, so we would urge parents and guardians of children to check if any products already in their home are affected by this recall," Tina Potter, the FSA's Head of Incidents. REUTERS