The investigation focuses specifically on the companies whose products were tested in the UFS laboratory. (Photo: Unsplash)
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an urgent and large-scale investigation against nine of South Africa’s best-known suppliers of sanitary napkins and mini-wipes.
This step follows the publication of an alarming study by the University of the Free State (UF), entitled “The presence of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in sanitary pads: A study done in South Africa”indicating that common hygiene products may contain harmful chemicals.
The investigation focuses specifically on the companies whose products were tested in the UFS laboratory. The list includes several well-known brands that are available in South African stores:
- Kimberly-Clark of SA (PTY) Ltd (manufacturers of Kotex)
- Procter & Gamble (PTY) Ltd (makers of Always)
- Anna Organics
- The Lion Match Company (PTY) Ltd (wat as Comfitex handel dryf)
- Here We Flo (trading as Flo)
- Johnson & Johnson (PTY) Ltd (trading as Stay Free)
- Premier Group of Companies (trading as Lil-lets)
- Essity Hygiene and Health AB (trading as Libresse South Africa)
- My Time
According to the NPC, there is great concern that these products contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as parabens, phthalates and bisphenols. The potential impact on the women and girls who use these products monthly is serious.
“These EDCs are linked to health complications such as hormonal imbalances, infertility, endometriosis and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products monthly,” the statement said.
(Foto: Unsplash)
The investigation will be aimed at determining whether these suppliers have breached the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), specifically sections 55 and 24. The NPC is unwavering in its position that safety is not negotiable.
“The Consumer Protection Act states that consumers have the right to receive goods that are reasonably suitable for their intended purposes. Consumers also have the right to goods of good quality and in proper working order. The goods must be free from defects and be usable and durable for a reasonable period of time.”
Demands for transparency
The NPA is not going to rely only on the university’s study, but is now forcing the suppliers to come up with evidence themselves. Companies will need to conduct their own tests or submit their most recent lab results that specifically test for the presence of EDCs.
If these results confirm that the products are unsafe, this can lead to drastic action. The NPC has indicated that once the results have been assessed, it will be determined whether the provisions for product recall in terms of section 60 of the WVB should be introduced. This could mean removing millions of units of inventory from the shelves.
Hardin Ratshisusu, acting commissioner of the NPC, made it clear that the matter is being treated as a national priority. He emphasized that the companies will have the opportunity to present their side of the matter.
“The findings of the study raise serious concerns affecting women and girls and warrant an investigation, making it a priority investigation.
“The affected suppliers will be given an opportunity to respond to the concerns as part of the investigation, before the NPC makes a decision on the matter,” said Ratshisusu.
The commission will also work with other regulatory authorities to ensure the integrity of the process.