Clover Under Scrutiny for Consumer Protection Act Violations After Go Nuts Peanut Butter Recall

In a recent development that has raised concerns among South African consumers, Clover Industries Limited is being investigated by the National Consumer Commission (NCC) for possible violations of the Consumer Protection Act. This probe comes in the wake of the company's recall of 10,776 units of its Go Nuts Peanut Butter 400g as tests indicated excessive levels of aflatoxin, a substance that can lead to serious health complications if ingested.

The recall has been a cause for alarm as the product in question was widely distributed, reaching approximately 993 retailers across the country. The NCC has been proactive in advising consumers who possess Go Nuts Peanut Butter jars with the best-before dates of July 12, 18, and 19, 2025, to cease consumption and return the product to their place of purchase. The promise of a full refund stands, regardless of whether the buyer has a receipt.

The situation with Clover is not isolated; last month saw numerous recalls of peanut butter products from several brands, including Pick n Pay, Dischem, Wazoogles, Eat Naked, and even Woolworths's Peanut Butter Dairy Ice Cream. These products failed to meet the regulatory standards for aflatoxin levels, a concerning pattern that suggests broader issues within the supply chain and quality control methods.

The acting commissioner of the NCC, Thezi Mabuza, underscored the severity of the situation. Suppliers have been urged to adhere strictly to established protocols and regulations. Furthermore, an order has been directed toward all related producers, manufacturers, and suppliers to conduct immediate aflatoxin testing and to report their findings urgently.

The commission's approach signals its resolve to both protect consumers and enforce compliance rigorously. Mabuza highlighted the health risks associated with high aflatoxin levels, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Her call to action is unequivocal: suppliers must recall any non-compliant brands forthwith to shield South African consumers from further potential harm. While the NCC endeavors to unearth the root cause of these alarming discoveries, cooperation from suppliers will be pivotal.

The investigation is still in progress, and the NCC's firm measures aim to bolster consumer confidence and uphold the standards of food safety that the public rightfully expects.