Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has issued a warning to consumers about a surge in under weight products expired products being sold in markets across the country. Unscrupulous traders are tampering with expiry dates and labels to avoid losses, putting consumer health at risk.
According to Sylvia Kirabo, UNBS Public Relations Officer, there has been a significant increase in cases of expired products being sold, with some business owners altering expiry dates to deceive customers.
“We have noticed a worrying trend of traders tampering with expiry dates and labels to make expired products appear valid,” Kirabo said. “This is a serious threat to consumer health and safety.”
Kirabo explained that while these products leave factories meeting regulatory standards, they often undergo tampering during transportation and distribution. “Drivers, agents, and other individuals involved may tamper with packaged goods, adding materials or reducing contents before reaching the market,” she emphasized.
Collaborating with law enforcement, Kirabo urged the public to report instances of underweight products to relevant authorities, including the police and UNBS. Such reports are crucial for maintaining market integrity and protecting consumers from deceptive practices.
In addition to underweight concerns, Kirabo addressed the issue of expired products being fraudulently sold by wholesale and retail businesses. She cautioned these sectors against altering expiry dates on goods still in their inventory, warning of the serious health risks posed to unsuspecting consumers.
“The business community must uphold ethical standards and ensure that products sold are safe and compliant with regulations,” Kirabo asserted. She called upon wholesalers and retailers to verify the authenticity of product expiry dates and refrain from engaging in unlawful practices that jeopardize public health.
Regarding product standards, Kirabo urged both small-scale and larger factories to prioritize obtaining the UNBS Quality Mark (Q mark) for each product. This certification ensures that products meet specified standards and undergo rigorous testing and compliance checks.
“We encourage all manufacturers to adhere to these standards and operate within the parameters outlined in their certifications,” Kirabo added. She emphasized the importance of consumer safety and market transparency in upholding the integrity of Uganda’s marketplace.
The UNBS is urging consumers to be vigilant and check for the UNBS Qmark on products to ensure they are safe and genuine. The Qmark is a certification of quality and safety, and products bearing the mark have met strict standards.
