The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has confirmed a new nationwide recall of ButtaNutt peanut butter products after routine testing detected aflatoxin levels above the legal safety limit.
The affected batches were distributed across multiple provinces and stocked by major supermarket chains, independent SPAR franchises, and boutique food markets. Consumers are being urged to check their pantries immediately and return any affected products for a full refund.
The recall was formally announced after the NCC confirmed that certain batches failed to meet Department of Health regulations governing aflatoxin tolerance in foodstuffs.
Stores and retailers impacted by the recall
If you recently purchased ButtaNutt peanut butter from any of the following outlets, check the batch numbers carefully:
Pick n Pay
- Pick n Pay – Scottburgh (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Pick n Pay – The Pavilion (KwaZulu-Natal)
SPAR Group and Independent SPAR Franchises
- Sonstraal Spar
- De Dekke Spar
- Sea Point Spar
- Stellenbosch SuperSpar
- Bedford Spar
- Spar Wilderness Village
Specialty and Independent Markets
- Jackson’s Real Food Market – Kyalami
- Jackson’s Real Food Market – Bryanston
- Irene Farm Shop
Other Outlets
- Cannon Rocks Holiday Resort
- Wilderness Village Market
Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu urged consumers to act without delay:
“Consumers should immediately stop consuming the affected products and return them to the point of purchase for a full refund. The NCC is engaging the supplier on the extent of the contamination, including potentially from the raw nuts’ supplier.”
The Commission confirmed it is monitoring the recall in line with the Consumer Protection Act.
Health risks and immediate action required
Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain fungi that can contaminate crops such as peanuts. They are strictly regulated in South Africa due to potential health risks.
Short-term exposure may cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Long-term exposure over many years has been associated with more serious health concerns, including liver damage and liver cancer.
Affected ButtaNutt products
Consumers should look for the following:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter 250g – Best Before 15/07/2027
- 100% Peanut Butter 1kg – Best Before 17/07/2027
- 100% Peanut 2.5kg – Best Before 13/07/2027 or 28/07/2027
What to do
- Do not consume the product.
- Return it to the store where it was purchased.
- Request a full refund.
- If purchased online, contact the supplier directly with batch details to arrange collection.
A recurring safety issue for South African consumers
This recall forms part of a broader pattern of peanut butter-related safety alerts in recent years.
In 2024, several brands were pulled from shelves following similar aflatoxin findings, among them Pick n Pay peanut butter stock.
Product safety concerns have also extended beyond food.
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The NCC says it will continue monitoring compliance to ensure affected stock is removed from circulation and that consumers receive refunds where applicable.
