An Indian takeaway that sold a "free from peanuts" chicken tikka masala with a high level of peanut protein has been fined £10,000.
Chilli 'n' Spice, on Murray Street in Hartlepool, was prosecuted by Hartlepool Borough Council after a test purchase was carried out by environmental health officers.
A meal suitable for a person with a peanut allergy was requested, but when later analysed it was found to contain enough peanut protein to cause an allergic reaction.
Ahmed Catering Limited admitted selling a chicken tikka masala and pilau rice meal described as free from peanuts, which was not of the nature demanded.
It also pleaded guilty to placing food on the market that was unsafe and considered injurious to the health of a susceptible person.
It was fined £5,000 on each count, a surcharge of £2,000 and costs of £1,078.
Councillor Brenda Harrison, leader of the council, said: "Protecting the health of the public and ensuring food premises are safe is a top priority for the council.
"We have worked proactively with businesses to provide them with information on food allergens, links to free online training and examples of procedures that they should be following.
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"However, this case demonstrates that where businesses fail to accept their responsibilities and break the law we will not hesitate to take action."
Anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction after being exposed to known allergens in food can report it to North East Allergic Reaction at www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk and the local authority from where the food was purchased will contact you.
Anyone wanting advice or to discuss issues relating to allergen management can contact the Council by emailing PublicProtection@hartlepool.gov.uk