healthcare guidance

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has announced the recall of specific batches of Citro-Soda Regular products after identifying a potential safety risk. The move, communicated during a formal media briefing, reinforces SAHPRA’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that all health products in South Africa meet strict standards of quality, safety and efficacy.

Why Citro-Soda Regular Products Are Being Recalled

The recall follows a regulatory inspection at the Adcock Ingram manufacturing facility in Clayville, Johannesburg. During this inspection, SAHPRA identified a potential risk of foreign material contamination, prompting immediate precautionary action.

While no widespread harm has been confirmed, the regulator acted swiftly to minimise any possible risk to consumers. This type of recall forms part of SAHPRA’s risk-based oversight approach, which prioritises early intervention before issues escalate.

Affected Citro-Soda Products

The recall is limited to specific batches of the following Citro-Soda Regular products:

• Citro-Soda Regular 60 g
• Citro-Soda Regular 120 g
• Citro-Soda Regular 4 g x 30 Sachets

Consumers are advised to check batch numbers carefully against official recall notices. Only the identified batches are affected, and other Citro-Soda products remain available.

DOWNLOAD THE CITRO-SODA BATCH LIST HERE

What Consumers Should Do

SAHPRA has issued clear guidance for consumers who may have purchased the affected products:

• Stop using the product immediately if it falls within the recalled batches
• Return it to the nearest pharmacy, store or healthcare facility
• Seek medical advice if any unusual symptoms or side effects occur

Members of the public experiencing adverse reactions are urged to report these incidents directly to SAHPRA, helping strengthen ongoing monitoring and safety measures.

Retailers and Suppliers Given Immediate Instructions

Retail pharmacies, wholesalers and distribution centres across South Africa have been instructed to:

• Immediately stop selling the affected batches
• Remove all stock from shelves
• Return products to suppliers without delay

This coordinated response ensures that potentially compromised products are swiftly removed from circulation.

SAHPRA’s Commitment to Public Safety

Speaking during the briefing, SAHPRA CEO Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela emphasised the organisation’s unwavering focus on public well-being.

“The safety and well-being of the public remain our highest priority. SAHPRA will continue to act decisively and transparently to ensure that all health products on the market meet the required standards of quality, safety and efficacy,” she stated.

Ongoing Monitoring and Compliance

SAHPRA has confirmed that the recall process will be closely monitored to ensure all affected batches are fully removed and destroyed. In addition, the authority will continue to oversee compliance at the Clayville manufacturing facility until all required corrective and preventative actions have been implemented.

This includes:

• Continued inspections of the facility
• Verification of manufacturing processes
• Ensuring long-term compliance with regulatory standards

What This Means for South African Consumers

While recalls can raise concern, they are also a sign that regulatory systems are functioning effectively. SAHPRA’s proactive response demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability within South Africa’s healthcare system.

For consumers, the message is clear: remain vigilant, check product batches, and follow official guidance. For the broader industry, the recall serves as a reminder that quality control is non-negotiable, especially when public health is at stake.

As SAHPRA continues to monitor the situation, South Africans can be reassured that decisive steps are being taken to protect them — not after harm occurs, but before it has the chance to.

Source and Image: SAHPRA Official Press Release
https://www.sahpra.org.za/press-releases/sahpra-recalls-affected-batches-of-citro-soda-regular-following-safety-concerns/