SEVERAL batches of houmous sold in branches of Aldi and Lidl have been recalled by the manufacturer amid fears they could be contaminated with Samonella.

As many as 17 separate items on sale are being stripped from shelves amid serious concerns they contain the dangerous bug.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has urged customers to throw away or return the items - made by supplier Zorba Delicacies.

Among the items recalled are two brands of houmous sold at Aldi, seven sold at Asda, two at Lidl, two at Morrisons, two at Sainsbury's, and one at Spar.

From Aldi the recalled batches are: Deli Brand Reduced Fat Classic Houmous Triple Pack (3x60g), with a use by date of 3/11/2019.

The Reduced Fat Houmous Selection Triple Pack (3x60g) with a use by date of 2/11/2019 and 3/11/2019.

The Deli brand Basil Houmous topped with Pesto and Parmesan (170g), with a use by date of 4/11/2019.

From Lidl, the following two batches have been recalled: Meadow Fresh brand Red Pepper Houmous (170g) with a use by date of 6/11/2019.

Meadow Fresh brand Classic Houmous stacker (3x60g), use by date 6/11/2019.

An FSA warning said: "The products listed might be contaminated with salmonella.

"If you have bought any of the affected products do not eat them.

"Instead, return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund."