Tesco Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns Recall: Urgent Milk Warning for December 2025
Stop what you are doing and check your fridge immediately if you have shopped at Tesco recently. The supermarket giant has issued an urgent Tesco aubergine katsu bao buns recall for December 2025. A manufacturing error has resulted in specific batches of this product containing milk, an ingredient not declared on the label.
This is a serious safety alert. For anyone with a milk allergy or severe intolerance, eating this product poses a significant health risk. It also affects vegan customers who purchased these buns believing them to be entirely plant-based.
This guide details exactly which packs are unsafe, the specific risks involved, and how you can claim a full refund today.
Which Product is Being Recalled? (The Quick Check)
Do not guess. Check your packaging against the details below. The affected product is the Tesco 6 Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns.
Product Details:
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Name: Tesco 6 Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns
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Pack Size: 258g
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Use By Dates: All dates up to and including 13 December 2025
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Batch Codes: All batches within these dates are affected.
[Image Placeholder: Image of the Tesco 6 Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns packaging to help readers identify the correct item.]
If you have a pack with a “Use By” date of December 14th or later, it is not currently part of this alert. However, if your pack falls within the dates listed above, do not eat it.
Why Are the Katsu Bao Buns Being Recalled?
The recall was triggered after routine quality checks discovered the presence of milk in the product. This is legally classified as a “labelling error” because milk is an allergen that must be emphasized (usually in bold) on UK food ingredients lists.
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) alert reference FSA-AA-76-2025, the risk stems from a cross-contamination or mispacking issue during production Food Standards Agency Recall Alert. This means the product inside the box does not match the safety profile printed on the outside.
Because the packaging does not warn consumers about the presence of milk, the product is considered “unsafe to eat” under UK food safety laws for anyone with sensitivity to dairy.
The Health Risk: Who Needs to Worry?
This is not just about dietary preferences; it is a medical safety issue.
The Allergy Risk For individuals with a milk allergy, consuming even a small amount of milk protein can trigger a reaction. According to the NHS, symptoms can range from a skin rash and swelling to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening breathing difficulty NHS Milk Allergy Overview. If you or a family member has a milk allergy, this product is dangerous.
The Vegan Impact We know many of you buy these bao buns specifically for a quick, plant-based meal. Finding dairy in a product marketed as suitable for vegans is incredibly frustrating. While not life-threatening for non-allergic vegans, it is a breach of trust. You have a right to know exactly what is in your food.
How to Get Your Refund (No Receipt Needed)
Tesco has confirmed they are offering a full refund for all affected packs. You do not need to struggle with customer service or dig through the bin for a receipt.
Follow these steps:
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Stop: Do not cook or eat the buns.
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Return: Take the product (even if the packet is open) to your nearest Tesco store.
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Refund: Go to the Customer Service desk. State that you are returning a recalled item.
Consumer Tip: You do not need a receipt for a product recall. Stores have strict protocols for safety withdrawals. If a staff member asks for proof of purchase, simply remind them this is an official FSA recall for the Tesco aubergine katsu bao buns. They will process the refund immediately.
If you cannot physically get to a store, you can contact Tesco Customer Services directly on 0800 505 555 for further advice.
FAQs
Is the Tesco Aubergine Katsu Bao Bun recall nationwide?
Yes. This recall applies to all Tesco stores across the UK that stock this specific product.
Can I get a refund without a receipt at Tesco?
Absolutely. For health and safety recalls, proof of purchase is not required. The physical product is sufficient evidence.
What are the symptoms of a severe milk allergy?
Symptoms can include wheezing, swelling of the lips or throat, vomiting, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. If you suspect a reaction, seek medical help immediately.
Are other Tesco Bao Buns affected by this recall?
Currently, only the Tesco 6 Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns (258g) with use-by dates up to 13 December 2025 are affected. No other Tesco products are known to be involved.
What should I do if I have already eaten the recalled buns?
If you have a milk allergy and feel unwell, contact NHS 111 or your GP. If you are not allergic to milk, you will likely be fine, but you can still return the packaging for a refund.
Is the Tesco Aubergine Katsu Bao Bun actually vegan?
Usually, yes. However, the specific batches listed in this recall contain milk, making them unsuitable for vegans.
7. How do I contact Tesco regarding a product complaint?
You can call their Customer Services team on 0800 505 555 or use the contact form on their website.
Where can I sign up for future UK food recall alerts?
You can subscribe to email or text alerts directly from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website to stay informed about food safety issues.
Summary
To recap, if you have Tesco 6 Aubergine Katsu Bao Buns with a use-by date of 13 December 2025 or earlier, do not eat them. The undeclared milk presents a serious risk to allergy sufferers and compromises the product’s vegan status.
Mistakes in manufacturing happen, but your safety comes first. Return the item to your local store for a full refund today.
Help keep others safe: Please share this article with your friends and family, especially those who suffer from milk allergies or follow a plant-based diet. A quick text could prevent a serious medical emergency.
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