The Office for Product Safety & Standards has issued a recall notice for three models of pepper mill sold by Primark, warning they pose a serious chemical risk due to excessive lead concentrations. The £8 hand-grinding mills, made in India, were sold across the UK.
Affected Products and Refund Details
Primark has advised customers to stop using the product immediately and return it to the nearest Primark store for a full refund. The affected items have the following model numbers and barcodes:
- 6772201 / 5397349037640
- 6770801 / 5397349037541
- 3022201 / 5397349075604
For further information, customers can access the Primark Live Chat.
Health Risks of Lead Exposure
The recall notice detailed the risks: short-term exposure to high lead levels can cause stomach upset, mood changes, poor attention span, headaches, hallucinations, and damage to the brain and kidneys in severe cases. Long-term lower-level exposure may lead to anaemia, high blood pressure, and damage to the nervous system, brain, and kidneys, as well as effects on male and female reproduction.
Pregnant women, infants, and young children are particularly sensitive. Lead exposure during pregnancy may result in miscarriage, stillbirths, or premature births. Children exposed in the womb may have lower IQ, behavioural problems, nerve damage, or delayed growth. Lead can also affect fertility in both men and women.
Consumer Guidance
If you have health concerns regarding lead exposure, seek guidance from your GP or contact NHS 111. The product does not meet the requirements of the REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008.
