In a significant wave of product recalls, several popular items sold at major Australian retailers, including IGA, Chemist Warehouse, and Dan Murphy’s, have been pulled from shelves this week. The recalls encompass a diverse range of products such as children’s toys, sunscreens, craft beer, and snacks, all of which have been deemed potentially hazardous.
Customers are being urged to return these products to their place of purchase for a full refund. This precautionary measure comes as authorities and companies alike aim to mitigate risks associated with these products.
Beer Recall: Excess Alcohol Concerns
Bright Tank Brewing Co has initiated a recall of its West Side Hazy Pale beer, available at Dan Murphy’s, BWS, and independent bottle shops. The recall was prompted by concerns over higher-than-expected alcohol content due to secondary fermentation, which can lead to excessive carbonation and alcohol levels.
The Food Standards Authority issued an alert, emphasizing that the beer’s increased alcohol content “may cause illness or injury if consumed.” Consumers are advised to check for cans marked with the date BB200526 and contact Bright Tank Brewing Co for disposal instructions and reimbursement.
Sunscreen Safety: Incorrect SPF Ratings
The Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) has expanded its recall list to include several sunscreens that reportedly fail to meet their advertised SPF ratings. The products, which could potentially increase the risk of sunburn, include:
- The Fountain of Youth Environmental Defence Cream SPF50+
- Ethical Zinc Daily Wear Light Sunscreen SPF50+
- Ethical Zinc Daily Wear Tinted Facial Sunscreen (Light and Dark)
- Endota Mineral Protect SPF50 Sunscreen
- Allganic Light Sunscreen SPF50+ 70g – Baby & Kid Sunscreen
The TGA advises consumers to return these items to their purchase locations and stay informed about further updates as more products may be added to the recall list.
Snack Recall: Allergen Labeling Issues
Yummy Snack Foods has recalled certain batches of its Yummy Fruit & Nut Millionaires Mix and Barbi-Q Mix due to undeclared allergens like milk and nuts. These snacks, sold at IGA and Drakes supermarkets, pose a significant risk to individuals with allergies.
Consumers should look for products with best-before dates from April 24, 2025, to November 25, 2025, and return them for a refund. For more information, customers can contact Yummy Snack Foods directly.
Children’s Products: Mould and Asbestos Concerns
Mould in Toys
A recall has been issued for Bluey and Paw Patrol puzzles sold at Chemist Warehouse due to potential mould growth in the packaging. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) warns that exposure to mould can lead to infections and allergic reactions, particularly in children and those with compromised immune systems.
Asbestos in Sand Products
The ACCC has also recalled children’s sand products from MIKI and Kidsplay Crafts after tests revealed the presence of asbestos. These products, distributed to educational centers and kids clubs, pose serious health risks.
“The products may cause a risk to health as initial testing in some samples found chrysotile asbestos and unidentified mineral fibres that could be consistent with tremolite asbestos,” the ACCC stated.
Vitamin B6: New Safety Controls
The TGA is moving to strengthen safety regulations around vitamin B6 products due to risks of nerve damage from long-term consumption of high doses. While products with low doses remain available, higher doses will now require pharmacist advice or a prescription.
RMIT University’s experts, Jack Feehan and Vasso Apostolopoulos, highlight that vitamin B6 is involved in over 140 bodily processes, underscoring the importance of careful regulation.
Seatbelt Clamp Recall: Safety Risks
A seatbelt clamp sold online through Kogan has been recalled due to improper positioning of the lap belt, which could result in severe injury during a car accident. Consumers are advised to stop using these adjusters immediately and contact HOD Business Group for a refund.
This series of recalls underscores the importance of consumer safety and the vigilance required by both regulatory bodies and manufacturers. As more products are scrutinized, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and proactive in ensuring their safety.
