Coles Supermarkets Ltd has issued a nationwide recall of two of its popular peanut butter products due to contamination with aflatoxins, a naturally occurring biotoxin that can pose serious health risks if consumed. The affected products were available both in physical stores and through Coles Online across Australia.
Recalled Products:
Health Risk Information:
Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain moulds (particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus) which can grow on peanuts and other crops under specific conditions—especially when improperly stored. These toxins are not destroyed by normal cooking or processing.
Long-term exposure to aflatoxins is linked to liver damage, immune suppression, and most critically, an increased risk of liver cancer. Young children, individuals with existing liver conditions, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Even short-term intake of high aflatoxin levels may cause acute poisoning, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and liver failure.
What You Should Do:
Consumers are advised not to eat the affected peanut butter products. The jars should be returned to the store for a full refund. Coles Online customers can request a refund or credit by contacting Coles Online Customer Care at 1800 455 400.
For further queries, contact Coles Supermarkets Ltd at 1800 061 562.