McCormick's (MKC) proposed merger with Unilever's (UL) foods business is facing scrutiny by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority, according to a notice issued Wednesday.

The regulator is assessing whether the proposed deal could lessen competition in UK markets.

The CMA has set a Nov. 11 deadline for its phase 1 decision, it said.

Unilever shares were down 1.1% in premarket activity.