A MAN from Llandudno was left stunned when he found a live baby gecko in a pack of chillies he bought from the town’s Asda supermarket last week.
Kevin Cuthbert bought a sealed bag of Asda’s “fiery and fruity scotch bonnet chillies”, which are imported from Spain and quality-checked, but got a little more than he bargained for.
Sadly, despite Kevin’s best efforts at keeping it alive, he said the gecko died on Sunday (January 21).
Asda said it will be contacting Kevin about the matter.
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Kevin said: “A baby gecko was holding on to the last chilli in the pack until I went to freeze it - I went to put the last one in my freezer and it fell off the chilli!
“I was a bit shocked as to what the hell it was, then realised it was still alive.
“Due to geckos being a big bacteria carrier, I had to clear my fridge - I couldn't take the risk.
“The chillies originated from Spain, but he survived chillers, cold storage and being sealed in a bag. I tried to help with heat and crickets, but he didn't respond.
“I had lots of help and advice from professionals and good friends on Facebook; I'd like to thank them all.”
An Asda spokesperson added: "Whilst we have robust washing and quality controls in place, the nature of using fresh fruit and veg means that, very occasionally, hitchhikers may make their way onto our produce."
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