A mass recall of fizzy drink cans has been issued across the UK tonight, with regulators warning that certain batches could 'suddenly rupture,' posing a risk of injury to consumers. The Food Standards Agency confirmed the recall late this afternoon, urging anyone who has purchased specific multipacks of carbonated soft drinks to return them immediately for a full refund.
The recall affects cans produced by a major supplier whose name has not yet been released, but sources indicate the issue stems from a manufacturing defect that compromises the structural integrity of the cans. Under normal conditions, the carbonation pressure can cause the metal to fail, leading to a violent burst. 'This is not a minor leak. We are talking about cans that can explode without warning,' a senior FSA official said. 'Anyone holding a recalled can should handle it with extreme care and not open it.'
The news comes as a blow to families already struggling with the cost of living, many of whom rely on discounted multipacks from budget supermarkets. 'I bought a pack of 24 for the kids' party,' said one mother from Manchester. 'Now I'm terrified they'll go off in the kitchen. It's just one more thing to worry about when you're already counting every penny.'
Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from shelves and display recall notices at point of sale. The FSA has set up a dedicated helpline and website for consumers to check batch numbers. Early reports suggest the problem may have been present for several weeks, raising questions about how such a defect slipped through quality checks.
Unions representing factory workers have expressed concern over the working conditions at the plant believed to be involved. 'If corners were cut on safety to ramp up production, that's a disgrace,' said a spokesperson for the GMB union. 'Our members deserve safe workplaces, and the public deserves safe products.' The manufacturer has not yet commented on the cause or whether any employees have been injured.
For now, the priority is getting the dangerous cans out of homes. But for many, this recall is another reminder of the fragility of everyday life. As one shopper in Leeds put it: 'You think you're just buying a can of pop. But now even that isn't safe.'
