Asda has issued an urgent recall for three lines of women's handbags due to a "serious" chemical risk that could potentially harm the reproductive system. The affected products are all-black handbags with an "unknown" country of origin. According to the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), these items contain excessive levels of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a chemical commonly used to soften plastic and make it more flexible. The OPSS warned that phthalates, which are found in many consumer products, can be harmful to children's health and may damage reproductive organs. As a result, consumers have been advised to stop using the products immediately and return them to any Asda store for a full refund. The recalled handbags include the £10 Front Pocket Xbody Bag with product code 1100258937001; the £16 Opp Tote Bag with product code 1100260834001; and the £8 Black Nylon Phone Bag with product code 1100258939001. For more information, consumers can contact Asda directly at 0330 053 0111. This is not the first recall involving Asda recently. Last month, Asda and Morrisons recalled certain pasta products due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Despite these recalls and ongoing economic challenges that are putting pressure on household budgets, Asda is on track to see sales growth for the first time in two years. The supermarket chain, which is backed by private equity, described its current progress as being in the "foothills of recovery" as it implements a major turnaround strategy. Allan Leighton, Asda’s chief executive, said the company has completed roughly one-third of its restructuring process. He emphasized that the turnaround is expected to take between three and five years, and that this timeline is normal for such a large-scale transformation. Leighton, who has returned to his role as Asda’s leader 25 years after previously heading up the business, noted that the company's current position aligns with his expectations since taking charge in late 2024. He reiterated that the company remains focused on its long-term strategy, despite the challenges it faces.