Needles have been found in a punnet of Auckland strawberries at supermarket chain Countdown.
In the latest development in the ‘strawberrygate’ saga, needles have been found in strawberries from an Australian supplier, bought at an Auckland supermarket.
Supermarket, Countdown, has withdrawn the Australian Choice brand as a precaution and is advising customers to cut up the berries before biting into them.
The Choice brand of strawberries, sourced from Western Australia, were sold nationwide last week.
“Customers can return any Choice brand of strawberries they may have at home to Countdown for peace of mind and a full refund,” the supermarket said in a statement.
“As an extra precaution and following similar advice from public health authorities in Australia, customers should cut up any Australian strawberries before eating them.”
“Countdown is in contact with both New Zealand and Australian authorities as they investigate this matter.”
“As an extra precaution and following similar advice from public health authorities in Australia, customers should cut up any Australian strawberries before eating them.
“There have been no reports of any illness or injury in New Zealand. The strawberries affected by this withdrawal have not previously had any issues of this nature reported and had not been withdrawn from sale in Australia,” the statement said.
