The Consumer Council of Fiji has issued a serious warning regarding the ongoing issue of weevils, maggots, and spoilage found in a well-known flour brand, labeling it an unacceptable violation of food safety standards. Despite prior complaints, the recurrence of this problem raises significant concerns about the quality control protocols among manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
CCF’s Chief Executive, Seema Shandil, emphasized that this persistent issue not only compromises product integrity but also poses a direct risk to public health, particularly for consumers in rural regions who may lack easy access to refunds or replacements. She condemned the situation, asserting that flour, being a staple food item, must consistently be safe for consumption.
The Consumer Council is demanding immediate action from manufacturers to enhance their packaging processes and guarantee that their products are free from contamination. Additionally, Shandil called for retailers to adopt stricter storage measures and urged regulatory authorities to conduct thorough inspections to uphold food safety standards.
This recent alert aligns closely with previous inspections conducted by the Consumer Council, which unveiled a range of food safety violations including the sale of expired products and infested canned goods in Suva supermarkets. These findings, driven by a consumer tip-off, highlighted severe health risks, leading to a crackdown by the Ministry of Health, which issued Abatement Notices to offending businesses.
In light of these recurring issues, it is critical for all entities involved in the food supply chain to take accountability and prioritize consumer safety. Continuous dialogue about food safety practices and adherence to regulations are vital to restoring public trust in the food industry.
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected violations, thereby contributing to a more transparent and safe food market. With active efforts from the Consumer Council and health authorities, there is hope for significant improvements in food safety standards across Fiji.
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