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.

Lekker Biltong Slices were recalled due to mould contamination from packaging fault; affected batches expire 11/01/2026. Credit: Food Standards Australia New Zealand

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.

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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

• 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.

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.

 

[Sherril54]

No never been caught out yet.

 

[Still Ebby]

Just a maggots in a Toblerone Bar years ago . lf l ever buy another l would cut a piece off and not bite into it l don't want to eat half a maggot again.But they say don't complain when you get extra's

 

[novezar]

Never seen or heard of the product.
Being the peri - peri chilli variety they can shove it where the sun doesn't shine.

I wouldn't touch the other variety of whatever it is either.

 

[Littleboy8]

Used to eat heaps in Tassie it’s addictive and we had sth African friends who made it fresh. Yum.

 

[Veggiepatch]

Sounds like a variant of beef jerky, something else I would never touch!

 

[Clancieblue]

Sounds like a variant of beef jerky, something else I would never touch!

You have to be a Jerky to eat it. (Sorry Littleboy8 just joking)

 

[Littleboy8]

You have to be a Jerky to eat it. (Sorry Littleboy8 just joking)

it’s delicious but each to their own.

 

[7777]

These days, there are forever supermarket food items, that are being recalled for contamination, selmanella or found to be containing some foreign object like plastic particles.
I believe that every company, who produce foods, should do a health safety check, on the first batch of items, by eating or drinking their product themselves first, for at least a month. And if there are no signs of illness, then let that be an indication that the product is safe and can be sold for consumption.
Why do we, as consumers, have to be the ones who are in a sense, be the testers of a food or drink product. And when we fall ill, we are told, oh, just return the item and you get a refund. I do not need a refund when I am in hospital being treated for selmanella or some other illness, caused by what I just ate. I am not worried for myself as much as I am worried for my children.
I can recall our family eating roast chicken from our local supermarket, and after the whole family went to hospital for contamination of chicken infested selmanella, we said no more roasted chicken from that store. When I was able to attend the store and explain what had happened, the manager said that he was sorry for what happened to our family, and that he would be happy to refund the $12.00 that I paid for the chicken. I then replied, I don't want $12.00 I want you to do a heigine check on your workers and the area where the chicken is prepared and roasted.
I believe there should be more food heigine inspectors supervising food preparation areas. It appears that sadly, some people who work with food, just don't comply with heigine rules and regulations putting people's health and well being in danger.