The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards has clarified that a certificate of verification of compliance issued for H-Brothers' packaging equipment does not authorize the company to repackage expired food products. This practice is considered illegal by the Bureau. The clarification comes after public concern and online discussions surrounding an incident involving expired food products at H-Brothers and the certificate issued for its packaging equipment.
According to the Bureau, the certificate issued by its Department of Metrology only confirms that weighing and packaging equipment meets the required measurement standards. It does not guarantee the quality or safety of the products being packaged. The Bureau emphasized that equipment compliance and product compliance are two different things, with Quality Assurance overseeing product compliance and the Department of Metrology overseeing equipment compliance.
The Bureau specifically stated that H-Brothers should not interpret the certification of its weighing equipment as permission to repackage expired products. The company was warned that repackaging expired products is illegal and that any company engaging in this activity will be punished according to the law. This warning was given during a press briefing where the Bureau addressed the issue.
To repackage food products, companies must first obtain an official permit, declare the products and quantities involved, and ensure the products undergo testing before approval. Inspectors are required to monitor approved repackaging activities to ensure proper labelling, traceability, and consistency of expiry dates. This is part of the Bureau's regulations to ensure food safety.
The Bureau further explained that expired products identified during inspections must be quarantined and disposed of under the supervision of relevant authorities and security personnel. This measure aims to prevent expired food products from being made available for public consumption. The Bureau reiterated that companies are not allowed to repackage expired food products under any circumstances.
The Bureau is working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen market surveillance and ensure expired food products are not repackaged or made available for public consumption. Businesses are urged to comply with national standards, and consumers are called upon to remain vigilant against the sale and consumption of expired food products. This collaborative effort aims to enhance food safety in South Sudan.
The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards' clarification aims to address public concerns and enforce food safety regulations. The incident involving H-Brothers highlights the importance of stringent controls on food repackaging. The Bureau's efforts to strengthen market surveillance and enforcement are crucial in preventing the distribution of expired food products.
Key points
- The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards has clarified that a compliance certificate for H-Brothers' packaging equipment does not permit repackaging of expired food products.
- Repackaging expired food products is illegal in South Sudan and companies found engaging in this activity will be punished according to the law.
- Companies must obtain a permit, declare products and quantities, and ensure testing before approval to repackage food products.
