Essex kosher shoppers have complained of “absolutely rancid” Gilbert’s salt beef purchased from a Costco branch.

One customer, who bought two packets well within the “best before” date, wrote on social media that there was a “stench” on opening the packets.

Her post sparked dozens of replies, with some reporting similar experiences. She later wrote that a representative of the manufacturer had been “incredibly sweet, generous and apologetic” over the phone. 

“Engineers are now re-checking all their packaging/ vacuum machines,” she reported.

Another customer, who had obtained a refund, complained that their “whole house smelt of the awful meat”.

Gilbert’s, Costco and the Federation of Synagogues – whose Beth Din supervises Gilbert’s – all declined to comment.