SUPERMARKETS across South Lakeland have been stripping their shelves of products after the Food Standards Agency issued an urgent safety alert.

In the biggest recall in history, stores have been withdrawing products containing the carcinogenic colourant, Sudan 1.

The dye banned in the UK since 2003 - was found in a batch of chilli powder used by manufacturers Premier Foods in their Worcester sauce.

The sauce had been used in around 400 products - from seasonings and sauces to sausages and soups.

Trading Standards officers and Environmental Health officers from Cumbria County Council are in the process of contacting smaller caterers and retailers in the area to warn them of the dangers.

Nick Agarwal, press officer for Asda, revealed 68 of the supermarket's own-brand products had been affected: "Many of the products which we recalled have already been re-formulated and are back on the shelf and we would like to reassure customers that none of our own-brand products pose a threat.

"Many were recalled simply as a precautionary measure."

A spokesperson for Booths also stressed there was little risk to customers: "We have taken products off the shelves but it has not affected us a great deal.

"We are continuing to check with the FSA for updated lists," he said.

FSA chief executive, Dr Jon Bell, said the agency which discovered the problem last Friday - would continue to work with the industry to ensure the speedy removal of any affected foods.

"Sudan 1 could contribute to an increased risk of cancer," he confirmed.

"At the levels present the risk is likely to be very small but it is sensible to avoid eating any more.

"If people have any of these foods at home they are advised not to eat them and to contact the store they bought them from for a refund."

An up-to-date list of products contaminated with the illegal Sudan 1 is available from South Lakeland House, Kendal; Ulverston Town Hall; or by visiting www.food.gov.uk