Customers are being urged to return a batch of hand soap over fears it is contaminated with bacteria, presenting a “microbiological risk”. A recall notice issued by the Government's Office for Product Safety and Standards said: “If used on damaged skin, or if it comes into contact with the eyes, the product may cause infection or irritation.”

Some aerobic mesophilic bacteria are harmless but others, like Salmonella and E. coli can cause food poisoning. Others can lead to skin, respiratory or urinary tract infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of a more serious infection that has spread include fever, night sweats, weight loss, abdominal pain and fatigue.

The affected soap product is Elbow Grease Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner made in Turkey, with a batch code of 00645 and barcode 5053249248059.

Made by 151 Products Ltd, the yellow liquid gel is sold in a 500ml clear plastic bottle with a red lid.

It is thought to be contaminated with aerobic mesophilic bacteria, which can grow in temperatures between 20C and 45C.

Their presence in food and cosmetic products can indicate quality and contamination issues.

The notice added: “The affected batch does not meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 or the Cosmetic Products Enforcement Regulations 2013.

“Users are advised to check the product packaging, batch number and barcode.

“If their product is part of the affected batch, consumers should return the item to their place of purchase as soon as possible.”