In a statement issued on September 20, Fonterra Brands (New Zealand) Ltd (FBNZ) said that it was conducting a voluntary recall of the certain batches of Mainland Tasty Block cheese products, including the 500g, 700g, and 1 kg variants.
In a follow-up statement issued on September 21, Fonterra Brands (Australia) Pty Ltd also said that conducting a voluntary recall of select batches of Mainland Extra Tasty block 200gm and 400gm variants.
Alex Stevens, managing director, Fonterra Brands Australia, said that the recall was a result of the detection of a metal fragment found in a single pack, but there have were no reports of anyone being injured or becoming ill.
“The voluntary recall is a precautionary measure as there can be no compromise when it comes to product quality or the health and safety of our consumers,” he said in the statement.
In another statement issued September 22, Fonterra said that it was extending the products covered by a voluntary recall of some Mainland cheese products.
“On Tuesday, as a precautionary measure, we announced the voluntary recall of three products following the detection of a metal fragment found in a single pack,” said Dominic Quin, FBNZ general manager for marketing and innovation.
“On further investigation, we have found that a small amount of the relevant cheese was further blended and processed into flavoured individually wrapped slices. As a result there is a very small possibility that these products could also be affected,” he added.
Quinn added that there was still only been one report of a metal fragment in the cheese, and that consumers have been advised not to consume the products but should return them to the point of purchase for a full refund.
According to the statement, food recall notices have been placed in daily newspapers across New Zealand this week and authorities have been notified.