Global discount supermarket chain Aldi has initiated an urgent nationwide recall of a children’s card game following the discovery of a potentially lethal manufacturing defect. The product in question, Orchard Toys’ ‘Jungle Head & Tails’ animal card game, has been removed from all shelves after authorities determined it presents unacceptable safety risks.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued the formal recall notice after identifying that the elephant playing piece contains a small cardboard disc that can detach during use. This component, which should have been removed during manufacturing according to regulatory officials, poses a serious choking hazard to young children.
The affected products were available for purchase between December 11, 2024, and September 11, 2025, across all Aldi locations in Australia. The retailer confirmed the product fails to comply with mandatory safety standards for toys intended for children up to 36 months of age.
In an official statement, Aldi directed consumers to immediately cease using the game and ensure it remains out of children’s reach. The company has established a comprehensive refund program, allowing customers to return the product to any Aldi store for a full reimbursement regardless of purchase proof.
The ACCC emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the defective component creates ‘a serious risk of injury or death’ to young users. This marks another significant product safety recall in the retail sector, highlighting ongoing challenges in manufacturing quality control and consumer protection.