By Olinka Koster
Thousands of bottles of mouthwash have been recalled over fears they could cause chest infections and make lung conditions worse.

The products, which include brands sold at Tesco, Asda and Morrisons, have been infected with a bacteria.

Yesterday the manufacturers urged customers who have bought bottles in the last three weeks to return them, for a full refund.

The bacteria, aerobic mesophile, will not trouble healthy people but could affect those with conditions such as cystic fibrosis, who are more susceptible to lung infections. It was discovered after routine tests.

Products affected include those by Dentimint, Dentyl and the supermarkets' own brands. No one has yet reported being affected after using the mouthwash.

A spokesman for the manufacturer, Robert McBride Ltd, said the recall was simply a 'precaution'.

He added: 'The immediate advice is for consumers to stop using the product and return the bottles to the retailer from which the product was bought.
There is little, if any safety risk associated with the affected products. But those people who have a lung, respiratory or chest condition or a problem with their immune system, and have used one of the affected products, should as common practice seek GP advice.'

A total of 17 products were recalled. The manufacturer said it did not know how many bottles had been sold, but it thought 'a few thousand' could have been affected.

The production line has been cleared and closed while an investigation is carried out.

Colin McIntyre, managing director at Robert McBride Ltd, added: 'We apologise for this inconvenience and fresh stock will be delivered, when appropriate, to those retailers and customers affected.'
DailyMail