Carol Jones was startled when she discovered unusual white blobs floating inside a bottle of Tesco’s blackcurrant-flavored still water. Living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Carol reached for the drink one morning in January 2024 to take her medication. Her husband, John, immediately noticed something was off.
Despite having sipped the water earlier without detecting a difference—though her MS affects her sense of taste—the couple spotted strange particles suspended in the liquid. Concerned about potential health risks, Carol promptly contacted Tesco’s customer service.
Carol, 70, purchased the drink at Tesco Extra on Stratford Road in Shirley back in December 2023. When she called Tesco, it took several attempts to get through, and the customer service representative stated there was no need to return the bottle. Instead, Tesco sent Carol a £5 voucher as a goodwill gesture within a day.
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However, Tesco was unable to identify the floating items since the bottle wasn’t returned for examination. Carol expressed frustration that Tesco did not request a product barcode or photos, and she was merely advised that returning the bottle was optional.
Since the incident, Carol has avoided shopping at Tesco, opting instead for online shopping at Morrisons and weekly trips to Sainsbury’s with a friend. Although there is no definitive evidence that the particles posed a health threat, she remains anxious about the possible implications for her wellbeing.
“Trying to get into my doctor’s office is like waiting for Father Christmas,” Carol remarked, underscoring the challenges she faces in seeking medical advice.
A Tesco spokesperson reassured customers that strict quality controls are in place throughout the production process. The company urged customers to return any products of concern so they can investigate thoroughly. “We’re sorry to hear about this experience and take product safety very seriously,” the spokesperson said.