Lidl supermarket has been forced to recall two batches of its Kania GravyGranules after they were found to contain dangerous levels of a harmful paint thinner chemical. That’s always good news to hear a week before Christmas.
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The chemical in question is called xylene, which occurs naturally in petroleum and crude oil. Exposure to this chemical poses a serious health risk, causing irritation of the mouth, throat, nose and lungs and in severe cases, can lead to heart problems, liver and kidney damage and even coma, according to Public Health England.
The Food Standards Agency says:
Exposure to xylene in food products represents a health risk as it can cause adverse effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
The contaminant levels in this product exceed those set to minimise this risk and the product is therefore being recalled as a precaution.
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A spokeswoman for Lidl said:
We were very sorry to hear of this matter and can confirm that an investigation was launched as soon as we were made aware.
We are taking the issue very seriously and are working closely with our supplier to identify the cause.
This is obviously pretty alarming news, as it carries serious implications for the rest of Lidl’s products. If their randomly tested gravy granules have paint thinner in them, fuck knows what some of their other stock contains.
If any of you purchased this product from Lidl and you haven’t eaten it yet, then you are urged to take it back to the store where they will issue you with a full refund. If you have eaten it, just keep your fingers crossed that your body flushes it out of your system.
For a less terrifying, more positive Lidl moment, check out these bargain bucket isle items that will restore your faith in humanity.
