Pick n Pay Issues Urgent Recall for Peanut Butter Brands due to Aflatoxin Risk

In a significant move prioritizing consumer safety, South African retailer Pick n Pay has initiated a recall of three brands of peanut butter found to contain dangerously high levels of aflatoxin. The affected brands, No Name Smooth Peanut Butter, Eden Smooth Peanut Butter, and Eden Crunch Peanut Butter, are widely distributed across the country.

Pick n Pay's dedication to quality assurance surfaced this alarming issue during routine in-house testing, which unveiled aflatoxin concentrations surpassing the regulated safe threshold. Aflatoxins are a type of mycotoxin produced by certain fungi found on agricultural crops such as peanuts. These toxins can be hazardous to health, especially when consumed in large quantities, leading to various health problems including liver damage and an increased risk of cancer.

In light of the results, Pick n Pay has taken proactive measures to eliminate the tainted products from its shelves nationwide. The recall is strictly limited to the three mentioned peanut butter brands, reassuring consumers that other peanut butter brands sold at Pick n Pay stores are unaffected.

Understanding the severity of this health risk, Pick n Pay is encouraging customers who have purchased any of these products with expiry dates ranging up to July 2025 to return them to any Pick n Pay outlet for a complete refund. The supermarket chain is accommodating its consumers by offering refunds for products within the specified date range, irrespective of whether the container is opened or unopened.

Customers with concerns or queries regarding this recall are encouraged to approach Pick n Pay's customer service for guidance and are being asked to meticulously inspect their home pantries and food storage to ensure no affected products remain in their possession.

Pick n Pay has not only coordinated with the National Consumer Commission but also with the national department of health's directorate of food control to manage this product recall thoroughly and effectively.

As Pick n Pay confronts this issue, the retailer demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and consumer trust. Shoppers who have queries about the recalled products or who wish to get further information on the process of the recall can reach Pick n Pay's Customer Care Line at 0860 303 030 for assistance.