TBS seizes 20 tonnes of substandard products in Dar

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) Eastern Zone has seized 20 tonnes of low-quality products valued at 176m/- following special operations conducted in Dar es Salaam.

TBS Eastern Zone Manager, Noor Meghji, stated that during this operation that spanned from September 30 to October 13, about 120 shops were inspected in various areas of Dar es Salaam.

“We identified various products that do not meet quality and safety standards and some were found to have expired,” he said.

He said this initiative aims to ensure that citizens access highquality and safe products. He explained that the operation focused on inspecting alcoholic beverages, cosmetics containing toxic substances and unregistered energy drinks that did not meet quality criteria.

They also checked supplements that had previously been flagged as not meeting standards to ensure their status and remove unverified products.

“The removed products will be destroyed but before that we give owners 14 days to raise any complaints if they feel aggrieved. After that, the destruction process will take place,” he elaborated.

Mr Meghji added that the operation also assessed the registration of buildings selling food and cosmetics. According to the law, these premises must have TBS permits.

“In some cases, we found establishments without TBS permits and they were issued warning letters requiring them to obtain the necessary permits immediately,” he noted. He told traders that the aim of TBS is not to seize products but to ensure that the products available in the market are safe and of good quality.

“I encourage traders in the Eastern Zone, especially in Dar es Salaam, which is a business hub, to regularly check their products and remove any expired items. Additionally, their food and cosmetics outlets should be registered and display TBS permits visibly,” he stated.

Furthermore, poor storage conditions could lead to product spoilage, even if they were produced in safe environments. He also pointed out that food items, cosmetics and soaps should not be left out in the sun.

“I urge traders to ensure these products are not exposed to sunlight, as this can lead to spoilage and may create harmful substances for consumers,” he cautioned. He explained that some products are made with various chemicals and high temperatures can cause them to produce harmful substances.