Peanut Butter Manufacturer Fined R500,000 Following Contamination Scandal

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South African peanut butter producer House of Natural Butters, the company behind the Eden All Butters brand, has been fined R500,000 after its products were found to contain dangerously high levels of aflatoxins — toxic compounds produced by mould that pose serious health risks.

The fine, confirmed by the National Consumer Tribunal (NCT) on 3 June 2025, follows a settlement agreement reached between the manufacturer and the National Consumer Commission (NCC) on 25 February 2025.

This comes in the wake of a nationwide recall in February 2024, which affected major retailers including Dis-Chem and Pick n Pay.

Dangerous Imports and Lax Safety

The NCC investigation revealed that between May and November 2023, House of Natural Butters imported peanuts from Malawi and Zambia using transport vehicles that lacked food safety certification.

Laboratory testing confirmed the presence of decayed and aflatoxin-contaminated peanuts, which were subsequently used in the company’s peanut butter production.

“The Commission’s inquiry showed that the company failed to uphold necessary food safety standards and regulatory obligations, putting consumer health at risk,” said NCC Commissioner Thezi Mabuza.

Public Health Concerns

Aflatoxins are known carcinogens and can cause liver damage when ingested in high amounts.

Although no serious illnesses have been publicly linked to the contaminated peanut butter, the NCC emphasized that the risks were “unacceptably high.”

The recall in February 2024 affected multiple peanut butter brands, triggering widespread concern among South African consumers. Retailers responded swiftly by removing affected batches from shelves.

In a formal admission, House of Natural Butters accepted full responsibility for the breach of the Consumer Protection Act, which prohibits the distribution of unsafe or hazardous goods.

As part of the settlement, the company has agreed to pay the R500,000 fine, improve internal quality control processes, and submit regular compliance reports to the NCC.

The NCC also confirmed that a second peanut butter manufacturer linked to the contaminated batches is still under investigation. Further enforcement actions are expected as the inquiry continues.

Consumer Rights Emphasized

Commissioner Mabuza encouraged consumers to remain vigilant: “This case demonstrates the importance of holding companies accountable for the safety of the products they supply.

Consumers must report any unsafe products to the NCC so that appropriate action can be taken.”

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