(Gallo Images / Foto24 / Danielle Karallis)
Shoprite-owned Checkers and selected OK Foods stores have initiated a voluntary recall of 300g and 125g tubs of its fresh Deli hummus after routine testing found microbial contamination in three batches.
The affected products had a sell-by date of between 10 September and 8 October 2024.
The products being removed from supermarkets nationwide included Hummus, Reduced Fat Hummus, Zataar Hummus, Red Pepper Hummus, and Caramelised Onion Hummus.
The company said that the contamination was found in three batches of Deli-branded hummus, which is an inhouse brand, on Monday morning. Microbial contamination usually refers to bacteria, viruses or parasites that spoil food.
“As a precautionary measure the affected batches, together with associated products, are being recalled,” it said.
Some of the Checkers hummus products. Photo: Checkers
All production at the supplier of the hummus has also been halted.
“We understand that customers will be concerned and apologise unreservedly for any inconvenience caused by this voluntary recall,” said Shoprite.
It said customers who may have purchased these products should not consume them, but instead return them to their nearest Checkers supermarket or OK Foods for a full refund. Proof of purchase was not required and opened products may also be returned, said Shoprite.
It said its food scientists and technologists were working closely with the supplier and the National Consumer Commission on the voluntary recall.