Kitchen utensil recalled from Waitrose after cancer chemical fears – UK Times

A common kitchen utensil has been recalled from a major UK supermarket following fears it may contain cancer-causing chemicals.

Waitrose has urgently recalled the Oxo good grips pasta scoop strainer after tests revealed a batch contained unsafe levels of primary aromatic amine (PAA).

Customers who bought the product between 15 May 2024 and 25 October 2025 have been warned to stop all use of the kitchen appliance immediately, repackage it and return it to their local Waitrose supermarket in exchange for a refund.

A spokesperson for Waitrose said: “There is a risk of exposure to a potential carcinogen.”

They added: “We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused and would like to assure customers of our continued commitment to the highest standards of product quality and food safety.”

open image in gallery

Primary aromatic amines (PAA) are substances that can be used in the production of certain dyes, rubber, plastics, leather and paper. The compounds are derived from ammonia, and this means there is a risk of exposure to a potential carcinogen in high doses.

PAA exposure is significantly linked with increased urinary bladder cancer risk, and depending on exposure levels, can lead to prostate cancer.

The chain has asked any customers with questions to contact Waitrose customer care on 0800 188 884 and dial option 4.

Last month, Waitrose also had to recall two other products from its supermarkets.

This included the Jolly Hog leek porkers British sausages, which came in a pack of six. This had to be recalled due to an undeclared allergen of milk.

Similarly, the supermarket giant had to recall the Spoon granola cinnamon and pecan product after allergens of peanut and gluten were undeclared on the packet.

Earlier this month, The Independent reported on how discount retailer B&M had to recall an autumnal glass mug after a risk of it breaking when filled with hot water.