Woolworths has announced a recall of its peanut butter ice cream due to elevated levels of Aflatoxin, raising concerns for consumer safety.
Woolworths initiates recall of peanut butter ice cream
On Friday, the prominent retailer issued an immediate recall of its Peanut Butter Dairy Ice Cream.
This decision, Woolies explained in a statement, follows a rigorous assessment of all Woolworths products containing peanut butter, amidst wider industry concerns over Aflatoxin contamination in South African peanut butter products.
While Woolworths’ peanut butter itself was found safe for consumption, the company’s thorough review revealed that its peanut butter ice cream exceeded the legal limits for Aflatoxin levels.
As a precaution, Woolworths is removing the affected ice cream from shelves and has invited customers to return any purchased products for a full refund.
“At Woolworths we are committed to exceptional quality. Our rigorous food safety management processes ensure that all food that we produce, package and sell, delivers the Woolies quality our customers expect and trust,” the statement read.
The retailer assured the public that all other products containing peanut butter, including biscuits, sauces, pretzels, energy bars, and even its range of peanut butter, remain safe for consumption.
The recall follows a recent call from the National Consumer Commission (NCC) for a widespread recall of various peanut butter brands by House of Natural Butters, after findings of Aflatoxin levels above the legally permissible limits.
Is Aflatoxin dangerous for human consumption?
Aflatoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain moulds found in soil, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains.
These toxins have garnered attention for their potential health risks, particularly because of their carcinogenic properties, which have been linked to liver cancer.
Beyond carcinogenic risks, Aflatoxins are associated with a range of health issues including suppression of the immune system, growth impairment in children, and various gastrointestinal problems.
Despite these dangers, Aflatoxins must be consumed in very high quantities to pose a significant health threat to humans.
Regulatory bodies have established legal limits for Aflatoxin levels in food products to protect consumers from potential health risks.