Back Country Foods Limited has recalled its Back Country Cuisine Sticky Date and Custard product in New Zealand because of undeclared wheat and gluten, posing a potential health risk to people with wheat or gluten allergies or intolerances.
The recall was announced by New Zealand Food Safety on October 27, 2026. Consumers who are allergic or intolerant to wheat or gluten are advised not to consume the affected product and can return it to the retailer for a full refund.
The recall applies to the following product:
The product was sold through selected outdoor, sporting and specialist retailers in New Zealand. The affected outlets include Rarakau Lodge in Tuatapere, Bivouac Outdoor Wellington, Gearshop Tahunanui, Nelson Hunting and Fishing, Rebel Sport Dunedin, Rebel Sport Westgate in Auckland, and Taupo Hunting and Fishing – Fly and Gun Shop.
The product has not been exported, and the recall does not affect other Back Country Cuisine products.
Wheat and gluten are important food-label declarations for people who must avoid these ingredients. When they are present but not declared, affected consumers may unknowingly consume a product that could cause an adverse reaction.
In people with a wheat allergy, exposure can trigger symptoms ranging from hives, swelling and digestive discomfort to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. People with coeliac disease can experience an immune-mediated reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine, while those with gluten intolerance may experience symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
The severity and type of reaction vary between individuals. Accurate ingredient and allergen labelling is therefore essential to help consumers make informed food choices and avoid unintended exposure.
Consumers should check the product name and best-before date before consumption.
Retailers have also been instructed to display the official point-of-sale recall notice in their stores for one month.
Consumers seeking further information can contact Back Country Foods Limited:
Undeclared allergens remain a significant food safety concern because consumers rely on labels to identify ingredients that could affect their health. Even when a product is otherwise safe for the general population, missing allergen information can expose vulnerable consumers to avoidable risks.
This recall reinforces the importance of effective ingredient verification, allergen management and packaging checks throughout food manufacturing. Clear and accurate declarations are essential to protect consumers with food allergies, coeliac disease and other food-related intolerances.