Supermarkets pull popular cereals off shelves over labelling concerns

Several of South Africa’s biggest supermarket chains have issued an urgent recall of multiple cereal products due to inaccurate nutritional labelling.

Why are the cereals being recalled?

Retail giant Shoprite confirmed in a statement on 20 March 2025 that the recall affects all cereal products produced by supplier Heartland Foods. The move follows a discovery that incorrect nutritional information was printed on packaging.

“This action is being taken because of inaccurate nutritional labelling by the supplier. While no complaints have been received in this regard, we take our responsibility to consumers seriously and have therefore, after numerous interventions with the supplier, decided to issue a voluntary product recall,” the statement read.

While the issue does not pose an immediate health risk, the recall highlights the importance of accurate product information for consumers, particularly those with dietary restrictions or specific health concerns.

Which products are affected?

The recall includes several well-known cereal brands, including Morning Mills, Housebrand, Ritebrand, Ubrand, and OK Foods. Here’s a list of the affected products:

• Corn Flakes (Morning Mills, Ubrand, Housebrand, Ritebrand, OK Foods, Heartlands)
• Bran Flakes (Morning Mills, Housebrand, Ritebrand, Heartlands)
• Muesli (Morning Mills, Ubrand)
• Instant Oats (Morning Mills)
• Multi-Grain Flakes (Heartlands)
• Crunchy Flakes (Heartlands)
• Wheaty Flakes (Heartlands)
• Granola (Heartlands)

What should consumers do?

Customers who have purchased any of the recalled products are encouraged to return them to the store for a full refund. Shoprite has assured consumers that they are working closely with the supplier to resolve the issue and ensure all future packaging meets regulatory standards.

This recall serves as a reminder for consumers to check product labels carefully and for manufacturers to maintain strict quality control in food production.