A mould contamination incident has prompted a product recall across Coles supermarkets and several independent Australian retailers. The recall, reported by Yahoo Lifestyle, affects two varieties of beef snacks produced by Protea Foods Pty Ltd due to a packaging fault that may pose health risks to consumers.
Products Affected by the Recall
The recall involves two popular products:
- Lekker Biltong Slices Traditional (100g)
- Lekker Biltong Slices Peri-Peri Chilli (40g)
These items are part of batches 08 0804 and 08 0904, both carrying the expiry date January 11, 2026.
The Lekker Biltong Slices Traditional have been sold in Coles Supermarkets in New South Wales, in independent stores in Victoria and Western Australia, and online within WA. Meanwhile, the Peri-Peri Chilli variant was distributed through independent retailers in Victoria and Western Australia only.
Both products are air-dried, made from premium Australian beef, and marketed as high-protein, gluten-free, and low-fat snacks. These characteristics have contributed to their popularity, particularly among health-conscious consumers seeking alternative snack options.
Source of the Contamination
According to food safety authorities, the issue arises from a fault in the packaging process. The failure in maintaining proper sealing conditions has allowed moisture ingress, which in turn led to mould formation within the sealed packages.
Mould contamination can pose serious health risks if consumed, particularly for people with allergies, respiratory conditions, or weakened immune systems. Food products containing visible or invisible mould can harbor toxins and bacteria, making them unsafe for consumption even if the product appears normal.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who have purchased the recalled products are advised not to consume them. Instead, they should return the item to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Additionally, those who may have consumed the product and are experiencing any symptoms are encouraged to seek medical attention. Although no health incidents have been reported at the time of the recall, food authorities emphasize the precautionary nature of the measure.
