Half of recalled unsalted butter now accounted for

Slightly higher traces of bacteria were found in the affected batch, which were still within regulatory standards.

A recall was issued as a precautionary measure.

‘As of 8am today [Wednesday 18 November], of the 3,360 packs that were despatched from the Dairy we have received back 1,741,’ said Alex Tielles, Guernsey Dairy quality and compliance manager.

‘The majority were returned directly from retailers, prior to sale, following the decision to withdraw this batch. However, some have since been returned by the public, after the recall notice was issued, and we are continuing to receive packs as and when they are returned to stores.’

All affected packets are in the island as only salted butter is exported off-island.

Roughly 1,600 packs are still unaccounted for.

‘Of these, we know some have been returned to retailers, but we have not yet received them back. However, we don’t expect every pack to be returned. Some may simply be thrown away, and some will have already been eaten. As we stressed at the time this should not give any cause for unnecessary concern.’

What caused the higher bacteria levels is as yet undetermined.

‘A full and thorough investigation is continuing with the assistance of two independent accredited UK food laboratories. The findings will be gathered and acted upon in due course.’

One batch was affected, which was distributed on 31 October, with a best before date of 11 December 2020 and production code 131.

All remaining unsalted butter stocks were held from distribution until it was determined only one batch was affected.

‘The next production of unsalted butter was on 13 November. This will be released for sale once it has undergone and passed the additional testing protocols. This supplementary testing will be in place until the full investigation is complete and Guernsey Dairy is satisfied there will be no reoccurrence.’

Legally five tests are required, yet the Dairy performs 12 ordinarily before products are released for sale.