Is it safe to eat mustard now? Understanding recent recalls

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

In late 2024, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) coordinated the recall of hundreds of products containing mustard due to undeclared peanut contamination, sparking public concern. Since then, UK authorities have confirmed that standard mustard is now safe for most consumers. This article addresses whether it is safe to eat mustard now after these food safety events.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a detailed overview of the recent UK peanut-related mustard recall and a US Salmonella alert, explaining the current safety status for consumers, including those with allergies.

Key Points

Check FSA Records: Individuals with peanut allergies should review the FSA's list of recalled products purchased before October 1, 2024.
Discard Specific US Recalls: If you bought Keith Valley or Red Boy mustard in the affected states with the specified lot numbers, discard it due to Salmonella risk.
Trust Your Senses: Check for mold, off-smells, or excessively watery/clumpy textures as indicators of spoilage in any old mustard.
Refrigerate Opened Jars: While not always required for safety, refrigerating opened mustard is essential for preserving quality and flavor.
Use Clean Utensils: Prevent contamination and extend shelf life by using clean spoons and knives with jarred mustard.
General Safety is Restored: For most consumers, the recent recall issues have been resolved, and commercially available mustard is safe to eat.

Current Safety Status of Mustard

For the vast majority of consumers, mustard is safe to eat and can be enjoyed without concern. Recent safety issues were contained by food safety authorities and affected specific product batches, not the entire market. However, specific at-risk groups and individuals with older products should remain vigilant. The two primary incidents generating concern were a UK-based recall for peanut contamination and a US-based recall for Salmonella.

The UK Peanut Contamination Recall (Autumn 2024)

In autumn 2024, an investigation in the UK and parts of Europe found that mustard products from supplier FGS Ingredients were contaminated with undeclared peanuts, posing a risk to those with peanut allergies. This led to a large recall of over 300 products.

Resolution: By mid-November 2024, the FSA confirmed that affected products were removed and necessary safety measures were in place, lifting the general allergy advice. Standard food safety procedures have been applied to products distributed after October 1, 2024.
What this means now: People with peanut allergies no longer need to avoid all mustard. They should, however, check the FSA's archived recall alerts for any affected products bought before October 1, 2024. Newer purchases are safe.

The US Salmonella Recall (January 2025)

In January 2025, the U.S. FDA recalled specific lots of Keith Valley and Red Boy mustard in four states due to potential Salmonella contamination. This was a Class III recall, meaning a low risk of serious health issues, though higher for vulnerable groups.

Affected Products: Specific lot codes of Keith Valley and Red Boy brand mustard in 1-gallon sizes.
Resolution and Advice: Affected products were removed from sale. Consumers who bought them were advised to discard or return them. The recall was specific and did not impact other mustard products.

Checking Your Mustard at Home

Beyond recalls, old mustard can spoil. Use your senses to check if it's still good.

Visual Check: Look for mold or significant separation that doesn't mix back.
Smell Test: Old mustard can lose its pungency or develop a sour/rancid smell.
Taste Test: If it looks and smells fine, taste a small amount. An off or bitter flavor means it's past its best.

Proper Storage and Handling for All Mustards

Proper storage helps keep mustard fresh:

Refrigerate After Opening: Keep opened mustard in the fridge to maintain quality and extend shelf life.
Use Clean Utensils: Avoid cross-contamination with clean utensils.
Keep Tightly Sealed: Ensure the lid is tight to prevent drying and mold.

Comparison of Mustard Types and Their Shelf Life

Mustard shelf life varies by type and acidity.


Mustard Type	Pantry (Unopened)	Refrigerator (Opened)	Notes
American/Yellow Mustard	1-2 years past 'best by'	1 year	Mild flavor.
Dijon Mustard	2-3 years past 'best by'	1 year	Higher acidity.
Honey Mustard	2-3 years past 'best by'	1-2 years	Honey acts as preservative.
Whole Grain Mustard	1-3 years past 'best by'	1 year	Contains seeds.
Mustard Powder	3-4 years	Indefinitely (refrigerated)	Longest shelf life.
Homemade Mustard	Not recommended	1 week to 1 year	Varies significantly.

Conclusion: Can You Eat Mustard Now?

Yes, for most people, it is safe to eat mustard now. The recent UK peanut and US Salmonella recalls were specific and addressed by authorities. The general mustard supply is safe. Those with peanut allergies should check the FSA list for products bought before October 2024. Always check older mustard for signs of spoilage and store it properly. If unsure, especially with old products or specific recall concerns, buying new mustard is the safest option. For a comprehensive list of resolved UK recalls, visit the official Food Standards Agency website.

For a comprehensive list of resolved UK recalls, visit the official Food Standards Agency website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, as of November 2024, the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) lifted its warning for mustard contamination. However, you should check any mustard products purchased before October 1, 2024, against the FSA recall list to be certain.

Yes, in January 2025, specific lots of Keith Valley and Red Boy brand mustard were recalled in four US states due to potential Salmonella contamination. The affected products should have been discarded.

Rely on your senses. Check for visible mold, an unpleasant sour or rancid odor, extreme separation that won't mix, or a change to a darker, clumpier texture.

Unopened mustard can last for 1 to 3 years past its 'best by' date, depending on the type. The date is more about peak quality than safety. Its high acid content acts as a preservative.

Yes, refrigerating mustard after opening is recommended to preserve its quality and flavor for up to a year. While its acidity makes it shelf-stable, its quality degrades faster at room temperature.

For mustard that has lost its flavor or changed texture but shows no mold, you can use it to create a marinade, vinaigrette, or glaze. If it shows signs of spoilage, it's best to discard it.

No, the recalls were limited to specific product lots and brands. The broader mustard supply across both the UK and US was not affected by these specific incidents.