Urgent Recall: Aflatoxin Contamination Leads to Nationwide Peanut Butter Withdrawal

A significant recall has impacted the peanut butter industry in South Africa after multiple brands were found to contain unlawful levels of aflatoxins, triggering serious public health concerns. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has called for immediate action, advising customers to cease consumption and return the affected peanut butter jars for a full refund.

The recently expanded recall includes products from well-known distributors and local health shops, such as Faithful to Nature, among others, adding to the initial withdrawal at the beginning of the month. The major supermarket chain, Pick n Pay, has pulled its No Name brand while Dischem recalled both its 400g and 800g Lifestyle Smooth and Crunchy peanut butter. In addition, Eden All Natural and Wazoogles Superfoods products have also been affected by this recall, with Wazoogles products being predominantly sold in the Western Cape and online.

The culprit behind the concern is a substance called aflatoxin — a potent liver carcinogen produced by Aspergillus fungi. According to the acting National Consumer Commissioner Thezi Mabuza, the manufacturer House of Natural Butters discovered the unsafe levels of this toxin in their products.

Mabuza emphasized that all manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors must conduct urgent safety testing on their peanut butter products and adhere to regulations that protect consumers. The Consumer Protection Act mandates the recall of any goods posing a potential risk of harm to consumers. Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and in severe cases, liver failure and cancer are startling long-term risks.

Food safety expert Professor Lucia Anelich highlighted the global prevalence of aflatoxins, especially in staple foods of developing countries, thereby increasing the risk of chronic exposure leading to liver cancer in later years. Moreover, aflatoxins can affect unborn children and have a link to stunted growth post-birth. Additionally, other factors like age, nutritional status, and frequency of consumption play a critical role in the severity of aflatoxin exposure's outcomes.

Despite no reported acute aflatoxicosis cases associated with peanut or peanut products, the threat posed by chronic exposure remains a pressing issue. Supermarkets and health shops nationwide are actively removing the compromised stock from shelves and guiding customers regarding the return process.

Customers who have purchased these recalled products are urged to return them immediately, with or without proof of purchase, to ensure their health is not compromised. This recall serves as a full-scale examination of food safety standards within the industry and puts manufacturers under the microscope to ensure compliance and prevent future occurrences.

The nationwide investigation by the NCC into House of Natural Butters continues, alongside the assessment of other peanut butter brands, to ensure the safety of all consumers across the country.