Coffee pods recalled in France over toxin linked to cancer risk
Consumers advised to return products to Intermarché stores where they were purchased
The product was sold across France at Intermarché stores
RappelConso and Adam Bartosik/Shutterstock
Coffee pods sold across France at Intermarché stores have been recalled after the toxin ochratoxin A was found at levels exceeding regulatory limits.
The voluntary recall was published by RappelConso (the French government platform for consumer product recalls) on July 3 and involved Planteurs des Tropiques - Pur Arabica Classic coffee pods sold in 250g (36 pods) and 375g (54 pods). The batches affected were sold between March 18 and July 1.
Shoppers are advised not to consume these products and return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
Why is Ochratoxin A so worrying?
Ochratoxin A is a naturally occurring mycotoxin produced by certain species of Aspergillus and Penicillium fungi. It can contaminate a range of foods, including coffee, if mould develops during drying or storage.
It can be found in a variety of foods such as cereals, coffee beans, dried fruit and wine. Laboratory testing service Eurofins describes the toxin as “particularly harmful,” noting that it has been associated with carcinogenic, teratogenic, immunotoxic, nephrotoxic and neurotoxic effects.
It says these health concerns led the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to support strict maximum limits for ochratoxin A in food products.
This is not the first coffee recall regarding this toxin either. Back in April, a 250g pack of Monoprix Gourmet Ethiopian ground coffee was also recalled for its presence.
