A batch of infected pork scratchings has left at least 12 people in hospital receiving treatment, according to a report.
Three brands of pork scratchings have now been recalled over salmonella contamination fears.
It has now been reported that dozens of people have fallen ill with symptoms consisting of diarrhoea, vomiting and fever after eating the products, according to Chronicle Live.
The Food Standards Agency have stated that six products have been affected and they were all made by the Tayto Group Ltd.
Tayto is the biggest British-owned crisp and snack manufacturer, and is stocked in all major supermarkets.
The recall involves some Mr Porky, Jay's and The Real Pork Crackling Company products because they might be contaminated with salmonella.
All the snacks being recalled have best before dates up to and including February 19, 2022.
Public Health England were reported to have said 176 people had fallen ill with salmonella poisoning and that a third of those who responded to questionnaires, at least 12, needed hospital treatment.
The cases are said to have occurred all over the country.
Rachael Newberry, 53, of South London, said: "A few days after I ate them, my stomach was gurgling and I felt awful.
"I was on the toilet all that night. I have been ill for about a week now and have only just started to feel better. I’ve been completely put off pork scratchings for life."
Tayto Group were reported to have said: "We apologise for any inconvenience."
The FSA added: "If you have bought any of these products, do not eat them and return them to the shop where you bought them for a full refund."
People infected with Salmonella typically develop symptoms between 12 and 36 hours after infection.
The most common symptom is diarrhoea, which can sometimes be bloody. Other symptoms may include fever, headache and abdominal cramps.
The illness usually lasts four to seven days, although the diarrhoea can occasionally be severe enough to require hospital admission.
The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.
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