The Waitrose oat drink recall is a reminder that temperature control is more than keeping a fridge cold

On 22 September 2026, the UK Food Standards Agency issued a recall for Waitrose Essential Unsweetened Oat Drink following a breakdown in temperature control.

The affected 1-litre product, covering best-before dates from 14 August to 29 October 2026, was recalled because poor temperature control created a risk of microbiological contamination and spoilage, potentially making the product unsafe to drink. Consumers were instructed not to consume affected packs and to return them for a refund.

Martin Westover, Director at Signatrol, the temperature data logging experts, looks at the importance of continuous independent temperature monitoring for laboratory refrigeration.

Signatrol is helping food manufacturers strengthen cold chain integrity with its new tempmate®-GS2+, a single use real-time tracker and data logger that provides complete visibility of the temperature, relative humidity and movement of food products at every stage of their journey.

After 23 months of rigorous testing, temperature data logging company, Signatrol has confirmed that models in its SL60 product range are fully waterproof in long term water submersion.