The conduct of beverage manufacturer, Elgin Fruit Juice is set to be investigated following issues with its apple juice concentrate.

Pioneer Foods, Coca-Cola Beverages, and Woolworths who all use this supplier have had to pull their 100% apple juice products due to concerns about the high levels of patulin in the concentrate. The toxic fungal product is often found in rotting apples and apple products.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) says based on the information at hand – it has reasonable grounds to believe Elgin Fruit Juice supplied goods that are unsafe and pose a potential risk to the public.

The acting National Consumer Commissioner Thezi Mabuza says the investigation will help them understand the nature, cause, and extent of the risk to the public.

Should Elgin Fruit Juice be found to have contravened the Consumer Protection Act it will be referred to the Consumer Tribunal. The NCC indicates it would in that case push for a fine of 10% of the company’s annual turnover or one million rands – depending on which is greater.

[Picture: Western Cape Info]