No further action will be taken against ALDI for their potentially misleading ‘flushable’ wipes claims, the ACCC says.

In July, the ACCC raised concerns with the German-based supermarket chain regarding its promotion of a number of wipes products marketed as 'flushable'. At the time, ALDI was promoting the Green Action Flushable Bathroom Cleaning Wipes in its catalogue.

The product included claims that the wipes were ‘flushable’ and able to ‘disintegrate in the sewage system’.

ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said ALDI responded to the concerns by removing the word ‘flushable’ from its bathroom cleaning wipes, and adding the instruction ‘do not flush’. It also removed personal hygiene wipes promoted as ‘flushable’ from sale.

“The ACCC raised concerns with ALDI about the use of the term ‘flushable’ on its wipes packaging, as this claim may mislead consumers if it cannot be substantiated,” he said.

“Australian water authorities face significant problems when non-suitable products are flushed down the toilet as they contribute to blockages in household and municipal sewerage systems.”

“We’re pleased that ALDI has added a ‘do not flush’ message for consumers making it clear that the bathroom cleaning wipes it is still selling should be disposed of in a rubbish bin instead of a toilet. We welcome their action in addressing our concerns." 

The ACCC has separate proceedings currently before the Federal Court against two Australian ‘flushable' wipes suppliers.