Supply disruption for Nova Biomedical StatStrip blood ketone test strips
Published: 14 October 2026
The affected lots have been associated with quality-control (QC) failures, and Nova has initiated a recall, advising that these lots should not be used. Lot numbers can be found on Nova’s Field Safety Notice. Nova has paused distribution of affected lots and advised that any further lots found to fail QC testing should also be withdrawn from use. This may result in further disruption to blood ketone point-of-care testing. Nova currently expects new product to be available for shipment to the UK during the week of 26 October 2026.
Without blood ketone tests, patients may come to harm or be exposed to potential harm. Interim clinical prioritisation guidance has been published by NHS England to support clinical decision-making regarding use of available blood ketone test strips whilst maintaining rapid recognition and safe management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), euglycaemic DKA and other clinically significant ketonaemia.
The National Patient Safety Alert has further information and actions for providers.