Peanut Butter Recall in South Africa Over Dangerous Toxins

In its official statement this week, the NCC urged consumers to stop consuming the affected products immediately and return them to the point of purchase for a full refund.

“Consumers are advised to immediately stop consuming the identified products and return them to the retailer for a refund,” the statement read.

The commission confirmed that it is investigating the source of contamination and monitoring the recall process under the Consumer Protection Act.

What Is Aflatoxin?

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring toxin produced by certain moulds that grow on food crops such as peanuts and maize. While trace amounts are often unavoidable, high levels can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Long-term exposure has been linked to more serious health conditions.

The NCC explained that the presence of aflatoxin above the legal threshold triggered the peanut butter recall. This is part of South Africa’s broader food safety framework, which requires manufacturers to meet strict standards to protect consumers.

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Affected Batch and Recall Details

The peanut butter recall covers products manufactured on 15 January 2026. The affected items include ButtaNutt’s 100% Peanut (1kg and 2.5kg) and Chocolate Peanut (250g). The products have expiry dates of 13 July 2027, 15 July 2027, 17 July 2027, or 28 July 2027. These batches were distributed in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape, reaching shelves in major retailers such as Spar, Pick n Pay and Jackson’s Real Food Market.

According to a statement released by ButtaNutt, most of the affected stock has been secured and removed from the market. However, the company, based in Paarl in the Western Cape, highlighted that 83 individual units remain with consumers.

Health Risks

Providing context on the health risks to consumers who may have already consumed a portion of the affected products, ButtaNutt said: “Health experts distinguish between ‘acute’ (once-off) exposure and ‘chronic’ (long-term) exposure. Primary risks, such as liver health concerns, are typically linked to regular, long-term ingestion over decades. Scientific guidelines suggest that an adult would generally need to consume over 2.4 kg of contaminated peanut butter (at levels of 500 ppb) at least three times a week to potentially experience acute toxic effects. Consumption of a standard serving is considered a once-off exposure and is highly unlikely to cause immediate or severe health effects.”

What Consumers Should Do

• Check your pantry: Look for ButtaNutt peanut butter products manufactured on 15 January 2026.
• Stop consumption immediately: Do not take chances with affected batches, even if the product looks or smells normal.
• Return for a refund: Retailers are obliged to accept the recalled items and provide a full refund.
• Stay informed: Follow updates from the NCC and trusted news outlets for further developments.

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Broader Context of Food Safety

While the ButtaNutt recall may cause inconvenience, it is ultimately a protective measure. Consumers should see it as part of a broader effort to ensure that the products we trust are held to the highest standards.

By returning affected products and staying informed, households can navigate this peanut butter recall with confidence. Peanut butter may be a household favourite, but safety must always come first.