{
  "id": 4879038,
  "title": "Woolworths recalls its WBeauty shampoo. Here’s why",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/woolworths-recalls-its-wbeauty-shampoo-heres-why",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-01T14:46:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/business/woolworths-recalls-its-wbeauty-shampoo-heres-why/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "South African department store Woolworths has voluntarily recalled its 250ml WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo due to a quality issue affecting a limited batch. The retailer identified the problem during routine quality assurance testing and is urging customers to return the product immediately. The bacterium Pluralibacter gergoviae, which can thrive in wet manufacturing environments and survive typical chemical preservatives, was found in the affected batch. Although the risk to healthy individuals is considered low, Woolworths advises customers with weakened immune systems to stop using the product to prevent potential bacterial infection. The WBeauty shampoo has been removed from Woolworths shelves, and the company will offer full refunds to affected customers. No proof of purchase is necessary to receive a refund. Woolworths emphasized its commitment to exceptional product standards, stating that customer safety is their top priority. For more information, customers can reach out to Woolworths Customer Service Centre at 0860 022 002 or email custserv@woolworths.co.za.",
  "summary": "Customers will receive a full refund when they return the product.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}