The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority says regulatory breaches prompted the recall of certain Citro-Soda products made by Adcock Ingram.

CEO Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela confirmed that only Citro-Soda Regular is affected, following allegations of non-compliance at the company’s Clayville plant in Johannesburg. The claims, raised by a former employee, were later highlighted in a Carte Blanche investigation.

While the whistleblower had previously contacted SAHPRA, the regulator said the initial information was insufficient to act. Once more details emerged, inspectors visited the facility on 24 February 2026 and identified serious shortcomings.

According to SAHPRA official Lebogang Mazibuko, inspectors found contamination risks, including metal particles, black residue, rusted equipment, and worn conveyor belts. Poor cleaning practices and inadequate handling systems were also flagged.

The recall applies only to specific batches produced at the Clayville site, including Citro-Soda Regular 60g, 120g, and 4g sachets. Products manufactured at Adcock Ingram’s Indian facility were found to meet standards.

Mokgadi Fafudi said tens of thousands of units distributed locally and to nine African countries are affected. Consumers are urged to return the impacted batches to suppliers or healthcare facilities, as the recall is a safety measure rather than a full product withdrawal.

SAHPRA will oversee the return and destruction of the affected stock and continue monitoring the Clayville plant to ensure compliance issues are resolved.

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