Woolworths has recalled a popular WBeauty shampoo from stores across South Africa after additional testing detected a bacterium in a limited batch, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The retailer has reportedly pulled the WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo, sold in a 250ml bottle, from its shelves with immediate effect.
For customers who may have the product at home, Woolworths says the affected shampoo should be returned to any of its stores for a full refund, and there is no need to produce a till slip or other proof of purchase.
Woolworths said the issue was first picked up during its routine quality assurance processes. The discovery led to further testing of the affected batch, which identified Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that can occur in wet manufacturing environments.
The retailer said the health risk is considered low for healthy people. However, it has advised customers with weakened immune systems to stop using the shampoo because of the potential risk of bacterial infection.
The recall applies specifically to the WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo in the 250ml size. If you have bought the affected WBeauty shampoo, Woolworths is asking you to stop using it and take it back to your nearest store.
A full refund will be provided, and proof of purchase is not required.
Customers who need more information can contact the Woolworths Customer Service Centre on 0860 022 002 or email [email protected].
While product recalls can be unsettling for shoppers, they are also an important part of the safety net around everyday consumer products.
‘Product safety is critically important to us, and the wellbeing of our customers is our first priority.’
– Woolworths
Shampoo and other personal-care products are manufactured using ingredients and processes that can involve moisture. That makes rigorous testing and quality controls particularly important in detecting potential microbial contamination before products remain on the market.
Woolworths said its beauty products are assessed by independent toxicologists and accredited laboratories, with its formulas also undergoing dermatological testing.
The retailer said it maintains high manufacturing standards across the WBeauty range. ‘We pride ourselves on exceptionally high standards, and we go to great lengths to ensure every item we produce is the quality our customers expect,’ it said.
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