South Africa NCC Issues Urgent Notice to Peanut Butter Manufacturers Over Aflatoxin Testing

• The National Consumer Commission (NCC) of South Africa has issued a notice to manufacturers and suppliers of peanut butter, requiring them to test their products for Aflatoxin within 14 days.
• The notice is based on Section 60(2)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), which empowers the Commission to protect consumers from unfair business practices.
• Manufacturers and suppliers must also submit their HACCP certification, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Certificates.

The NCC has specified that these tests must be conducted immediately, with results to be presented to the Commission within the stipulated timeframe.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) of South Africa has issued a notice to manufacturers and suppliers of peanut butter, requiring them to conduct an urgent investigation into the presence of Aflatoxin in their products. The notice, issued under Section 60(2)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), demands that all relevant parties test their products for Aflatoxin within 14 days of receiving the notice. This includes not only peanut butter manufacturers but also suppliers of related products such as chocolates, sweets, cookies, and ice cream. The NCC has specified that these tests must be conducted immediately, with results to be presented to the Commission within the stipulated timeframe.

The notice issued by the NCC is based on Section 60(2)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), which empowers the Commission to take measures to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, or prejudicial business practices. The CPA aims to promote a fair, accessible, and sustainable marketplace for all South Africans, and the NCC's actions are in line with this objective. The requirement for HACCP certification is also relevant here, as it ensures that food manufacturers and suppliers adhere to internationally recognized standards of food safety. This includes regular testing for Aflatoxin, a naturally occurring toxin produced by certain mold species that can be present in peanuts.

The NCC's notice has significant implications for the food industry in South Africa, particularly for manufacturers and suppliers of peanut butter and related products. The Commission's actions are aimed at protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with Aflatoxin contamination. Lawyers advising food manufacturers and suppliers must review the Notice's requirements carefully and ensure compliance, including conducting Aflatoxin tests and submitting relevant certificates to the NCC within the specified timeframe. Failure to comply may result in legal consequences, making it essential for industry players to take immediate action.

Lawyers advising food manufacturers and suppliers in South Africa should review the Notice's requirements and ensure compliance, including conducting Aflatoxin tests and submitting relevant certificates to the NCC within the specified timeframe.

Source: Original reporting via Media Statement: The NCC issues a Notice in terms of Section 60 (2) (A) of the CPA to Manufacturers and Suppliers of Peanut Butter