Lidl and Aldi Lead UK Supermarket Product Recalls in 2025 Analysis
Two major UK supermarkets, Lidl and Aldi, have been identified as having the highest number of product recalls in 2025, according to a recent analysis of Food Standards Agency data. Together, these retailers accounted for 13% of all products pulled from shelves last year, primarily due to labelling errors or contamination concerns.
Lidl's Recall Figures and Specific Incidents
Data collected by the Grocer revealed that Lidl recalled 10 own-label product lines in 2025. This total combines Lidl GB, which had seven recalls, and Lidl Ireland, with three recalls. Notably, eight of these recalls were attributed to contamination issues.
Specific examples of Lidl's recalls included:
- Listeria contamination in Deluxe Cheddar Cheese wedges in Northern Ireland.
- Possible salmonella in Sol & Mar pork scratchings.
- Other incidents involved potential plastic and metal contamination, as well as reports of a burning sensation from consuming AlpenFest chocolate-covered mini pretzels.
This marks a significant increase from 2024, when Lidl issued only five recall notices, highlighting a concerning trend in product safety incidents.
Aldi's Recall Data and Allergen Concerns
Aldi followed closely with eight product recall notices in 2025, most of which were due to undeclared or possible allergens. Key affected products included Perfect Christmas Mozzarella Sticks in Blankets, which contained undeclared egg, and Gianni’s Cheeky Monkey Ice Cream, which had undeclared wheat (gluten).
In 2024, Aldi recalled four products because of undeclared allergens and two more due to incorrect use-by dates, indicating a persistent issue with allergen labelling that has escalated in the past year.
Supermarket Responses and Safety Protocols
In response to the findings, a Lidl spokesperson emphasised their commitment to safety, stating, "We have robust due diligence programmes in place to monitor, detect and control compliance within our supply chains, including regular risk-based product testing and supplier auditing. In the event a potential product safety issue is identified, we work to mitigate the risk by informing our customers and working with our suppliers to ensure that robust corrective actions are put in place to prevent reoccurrence."
An Aldi spokesperson echoed this sentiment, saying, "Customer safety is our top priority, which is why we act quickly to recall products where there is a potential risk. All of our products undergo rigorous safety checks, and we work closely with suppliers to continuously improve their processes." Aldi further outlined its dedication to clear allergen labelling and ongoing process reviews to enhance consumer protection.
Broader Industry Trends and Statistics
Overall, the food industry announced 141 product recalls in 2025, representing a 23% increase from the 115 recalls recorded in 2024. Among these, there were 85 allergen alerts last year, averaging approximately one every four days. This rise underscores growing concerns about food safety and regulatory compliance across the sector, prompting calls for stricter oversight and improved manufacturing practices to safeguard public health.
