By Robert Segawa
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding underweight products circulating in daily markets across the country. Principal Public Relations Officer Sylvia Kirabo highlighted concerns over several essential goods such as cement, sugar, rice, and bread, which are reaching consumers with less than the specified weight, constituting a criminal offense.
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.
