Winter can be a time of dry lips, but if you're one of many Australians who are turning to a red tube of Lucas' Papaw Ointment to help chapping, you'll need to check the packaging.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration TGA has recalled 11 batches of the easily recognized product due to microbiological contamination. The batches are 15 gram, 75 gram and 200 gram ointment products that expire at different times throughout the 2025.
The TGA is urging consumers to check the batch number on the crimp of the 15 g tube and the bottom of larger containers.
The TGA said the microorganisms in question pose little danger but there is a remote risk that individuals who are immunocompromised could become ill if they are exposed. The microorganisms are Aspergillus tubingensis, Sordaria humana, Penicillium paneum and Paenibacillus glucanolyticus.
Lucas' Papaw Ointment is produced in Acacia Ridge on Brisbane's south side.
The recall resulted in the discovery of mould and bacteria contamination, according to the company.
Return it to the place where you purchased it for a refund or call our customer service line for a refund or refund. They said that the exposure to the microorganisms poses minimal risk to the general population.