| The Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) is encouraging the general public to be mindful when purchasing some items of pre packaged goods. In particular, the Bureau is calling attention to a prevalence in recent months, of ‘bag juices’ and ‘bottled juices/drinks’ with generic labelling being sold across the island. Generic labelling is not likely to include details which can advise the consumer about the contents of the product or the manufacturer.
The Bureau of Standards Jamaica, through its Regulatory Division, has observed an increase in the number of these products which are being sold in areas with high volumes of children and teenagers, as well as in commercial districts with significant pedestrian traffic.
The Bureau advises that all processed foods should be prepared, packed and stored under sanitary conditions in compliance with relevant standards, and the requirements of the Processed Food Act. The packaged items MUST be properly labeled in conformance to the requirements of the Labelling Regulations; it should clearly state the name of the product, the manufacturer or the distributor for whom the product has been manufactured, identifiable business address and list of ingredients.
Recent inspection and monitoring activities by the Regulatory Division of the BSJ revealed that many of these products, primarily ‘bag juices’ and bottled drinks or ‘juices’ do not bear the required information. Consequently, the Bureau is unable to attest to/verify the integrity of the manufacturer and the wholesomeness of some of these products.
Our increased surveillance of this industry has also revealed that there are some establishments operating illegally and under unsatisfactory conditions. The Bureau is taking the necessary steps to ensure that these establishments are brought into compliance with the regulations.
The consuming public is, therefore, being advised to pay particular attention to the labelling information on the product being purchased and also the place where the products are being offered for sale.
| Contact |
Ellis James Laing,
Acting Manager, Information
Bureau of Standards Jamaica
926 3141 – 5, extn 1016
484 4832
elaing@bsj.org.jm
01 March 2010
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