Mould contamination triggers urgent recall of $12 Coles snack
By
Gian T
- Replies 7
If you’re a fan of a quick, protein-packed snack—especially the kind you can grab on the go from Coles or your local independent grocer—this is one recall you’ll want to pay close attention to.
Protea Foods Pty Ltd has just announced an urgent recall of two of their popular products due to a packaging fault that’s led to mould contamination.
Here’s what you need to know: the recall affects Lekker Biltong Slices Traditional (100g) and Lekker Biltong Slices Peri-Peri Chilli (40g) from batches 08 0804 and 08 0904, both with an expiry date of 11/01/2026.
The Traditional variety has been sold at Coles Supermarkets in NSW, as well as at independent retailers in Victoria and Western Australia, and online in Western Australia.
The Peri-Peri Chilli version has been available at independent retailers in Victoria and Western Australia.
For those unfamiliar, biltong is a much-loved South African-style air-dried beef snack, prized for being high in protein, gluten-free, and low in fat—making it a favourite among health-conscious Aussies and anyone looking for a tasty, guilt-free nibble.
But unfortunately, even the best snacks can fall victim to manufacturing hiccups.
The culprit here is a packaging fault that’s allowed mould to develop inside the sealed packs.
While mould might seem like a minor annoyance, it can actually pose a significant health risk, especially for older Australians or anyone with a compromised immune system.
Consuming mouldy food can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, from mild stomach upsets to more serious illnesses.
If you’ve purchased either of these products, do not eat them—even if they look and smell fine.
Instead, return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you’re worried you may have already consumed some and are feeling unwell, it’s best to seek medical advice to be on the safe side.
A Spate of Recent Recalls
This isn’t the only recall making headlines lately. Just days ago, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a recall for a popular baby teething powder after a fragment of glass was found in one bottle.
The affected product, Weleda Baby Teething Oral Powder (batch (B)231302, expiry 11/2026), was sold at Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and Harris Farm Markets.
While only one batch is affected, it’s a timely reminder to always check your products—especially those for vulnerable family members.
Why Do Recalls Happen?
Product recalls are more common than you might think, and they’re not always due to negligence.
Sometimes, even the most stringent quality control processes can miss a packaging fault or a stray contaminant.
The important thing is how quickly companies act to protect consumers once a problem is discovered.
How to Stay Safe
Have you ever been caught out by a product recall? Did you get a refund, or did you have any trouble returning the item? We’d love to hear your stories and tips for staying safe—share your experiences in the comments below.
Protea Foods Pty Ltd has just announced an urgent recall of two of their popular products due to a packaging fault that’s led to mould contamination.
Here’s what you need to know: the recall affects Lekker Biltong Slices Traditional (100g) and Lekker Biltong Slices Peri-Peri Chilli (40g) from batches 08 0804 and 08 0904, both with an expiry date of 11/01/2026.
The Traditional variety has been sold at Coles Supermarkets in NSW, as well as at independent retailers in Victoria and Western Australia, and online in Western Australia.
The Peri-Peri Chilli version has been available at independent retailers in Victoria and Western Australia.
For those unfamiliar, biltong is a much-loved South African-style air-dried beef snack, prized for being high in protein, gluten-free, and low in fat—making it a favourite among health-conscious Aussies and anyone looking for a tasty, guilt-free nibble.
But unfortunately, even the best snacks can fall victim to manufacturing hiccups.
The culprit here is a packaging fault that’s allowed mould to develop inside the sealed packs.
While mould might seem like a minor annoyance, it can actually pose a significant health risk, especially for older Australians or anyone with a compromised immune system.
Consuming mouldy food can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, from mild stomach upsets to more serious illnesses.
If you’ve purchased either of these products, do not eat them—even if they look and smell fine.
Instead, return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you’re worried you may have already consumed some and are feeling unwell, it’s best to seek medical advice to be on the safe side.
A Spate of Recent Recalls
This isn’t the only recall making headlines lately. Just days ago, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a recall for a popular baby teething powder after a fragment of glass was found in one bottle.
The affected product, Weleda Baby Teething Oral Powder (batch (B)231302, expiry 11/2026), was sold at Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and Harris Farm Markets.
While only one batch is affected, it’s a timely reminder to always check your products—especially those for vulnerable family members.
Product recalls are more common than you might think, and they’re not always due to negligence.
Sometimes, even the most stringent quality control processes can miss a packaging fault or a stray contaminant.
The important thing is how quickly companies act to protect consumers once a problem is discovered.
How to Stay Safe
- Always check the batch numbers and expiry dates of products you buy, especially if you hear about a recall.
- Suppose you’re unsure whether a product you have at home is affected. In that case, you can usually find up-to-date recall information on the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) website or your supermarket’s website.
- Don’t hesitate to return recalled products—even if you’ve already opened them. Your health and safety come first.
Key Takeaways
- A recall has been issued for Lekker Biltong Slices Traditional (100g) and Peri-Peri Chilli (40g) due to mould contamination caused by a packaging fault, affecting specific batches with an expiry date of 11/01/2026.
- The affected products have been on sale at Coles in NSW, independent retailers in VIC and WA, and online in WA; customers should check batch numbers if purchased.
- Shoppers are advised not to consume the recalled items, as eating mould-contaminated food may cause illness, and should return them for a full refund.
- A separate recall has also been issued for one batch of Weleda Baby Teething Oral Powder after a glass fragment was found, with potential risk of choking or internal injury.