Coconut recalls prompt allergen labelling reminder

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has issued a reminder to all businesses, including importers, about the need to meet mandatory allergen labelling requirements.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said there have been a number of recalls issued for coconut products due to a lack of mandatory allergen labelling for milk and milk products.

“Allergens can be deadly, and this is why the code contains mandatory labelling requirements for nine allergens to ensure consumers have access to this vital information,” McCutcheon said.

“I remind any consumers who are allergic to milk or milk products to be mindful of recent recalls involving imported coconut products. Products have ranged from powders to coconut drinks and have been sold at smaller Asian retailers as well as larger outlets, chemists and online.

“State and territory enforcement agencies and the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (for imported food) have been investigating similar products.

“FSANZ will update its recalls webpage with any further associated recalls and will alert consumers through its social media sites. Anyone who has an affected product can return it to the place of purchase for a refund,” he said.