An urgent product recall has been issued for a popular coconut yoghurt brand stocked in two of the nation's largest supermarket chains, sparking a major food safety alert.
The food watchdog has warned consumers that specific batches of Cocobella Coconut Yoghurt 500g may contain fragments of hard plastic, posing a serious health risk if ingested.
Affected Products and Batches
The recall affects the Cocobella Coconut Yoghurt 500g with a best-before date of 21 October 2024. The contaminated product has been available for purchase at both Coles and Woolworths supermarkets nationwide.
Shoppers who have purchased this item are being urged to immediately check their refrigerators for the affected batch.
What to Do If You've Purchased the Product
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has issued clear instructions for consumers:
- Do not consume the product
- Return it to the place of purchase for a full refund
- Alternatively, dispose of the product immediately to prevent accidental consumption
Potential Health Risks
Consumption of products containing plastic fragments presents significant health hazards, including:
- Choking risk, particularly for children and vulnerable individuals
- Potential for internal injuries or digestive tract damage
- Dental damage from hard plastic particles
Anyone who has consumed the product and has health concerns should seek immediate medical advice.
Supermarket Response
Both Coles and Woolworths have been working with the manufacturer to remove the affected batches from shelves. The supermarkets have advised customers that they can return the product to any store for a full refund, with no receipt required.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in food manufacturing quality control and the importance of robust safety protocols to prevent foreign material contamination.
