The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and supermarket chain Dunnes Stores have issued an urgent recall for 680g packs of Dunnes Stores Potato Waffles following testing that detected elevated levels of mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH).

According to the food safety regulator, the recall applies to specific 680g packs with a best-before date of July 2028. Point-of-sale recall notices are being displayed across Dunnes Stores branches to alert consumers.

Mineral oil hydrocarbons consist of chemical compounds derived mainly from petroleum distillation and refining. These compounds can enter food products through various contamination routes, including machinery lubricants used during processing, food contact packaging materials, or environmental exposure.

The FSAI stated that while consuming the affected product does not pose an immediate health emergency, continuous consumption over an extended period may present long-term health risks because certain substances within the MOAH group can act as genotoxic carcinogens.

Consumers who have bought the affected batch are advised not to eat the waffles and to return the product to any Dunnes Stores outlet for a full refund.