Food Safety Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) revealed earlier this week that several varieties of 70g CalciYum yogurt pouches were being recalled from Woolworths, Coles and independent supermarkets across Australia.
The recall covers six varieties of CalciYum – strawberry yogurt (Disney Princess), vanilla yogurt (Ben 10), vanilla yogurt (Toy Story), strawberry (Cars), tropical yogurt (Mickey and Minnie), and banana yogurt (Wiggles).
According to FSANZ, the “weakened plastic on top of the cap may break off” – which could present a “choking hazard.”
Fonterra Brands Australia told DairyReporter.com that the recall had been initiated as a “precautionary measure."
“Precautionary measure”
“This 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,” said the company. “The recall of this product is due to a potential choking hazard caused by a weakened plastic cap. The weakened plastic on the top of the cap may break off, causing a choking hazard.”
Fonterra confirmed that the recall was initiated after consumer complaints about the safety of the product packaging were received.
“We have had two isolated complaints. There have been no reports of anyone choking or being injured," said Fonterra, adding that it has already “taken steps” to address the issue.
“Our preliminary investigation indicates that the plastic cap weakens when the cap is sealed too tightly during the production process. We have taken steps to address this issue, including further strengthening systems and processes to have all operators retrained as well as increasing the frequency of testing to ensure potential issues are detected at the outset.”
“Zero tolerance approach” to safety
“We have acted quickly and decisively, because we have a zero tolerance approach when it comes to the health and safety of all of our consumers, especially children," said the company.
It added that it has urged consumers to return the product to the place of purchase to avoid any risk of injury.
“Consumers should not unseal the cap of this product or give the unopened product to children. Consumers should return this product to the place of purchase for a cash refund."