Joint operation in Gauteng leads to the seizure of over 1,000 mislabeled syrups, protecting public health.
Image: File picture
Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, commended the removal of misleading "honey-based" syrup products from stores.
“The incorrect labelling and misleading information of these products can lead consumers to believe they are purchasing something beneficial to their health, when in fact it may compromise it,” Steenhuisen said.
The efforts aim to protect consumers from potentially harmful products disguised as health-beneficial honey.
The Directorate: Inspection Services (D:IS) within the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) enforces quality standards under the Agricultural Product Standards Act (Act No. 119 of 1990), and ensures accurate product marking to protect consumers.
Gauteng led the initial operations, supported by the Provincial Illicit and Counterfeit Goods Unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Targeted inspections were carried out in areas including Crown Mines, Kempton Park, Laudium, and Marabastad, in response to a national increase in complaints about mislabeled "honey-based" syrups.
During the operation from November 25 to 29, around 1,059 "honey-based" syrups were seized, and 388 honey products were found non-compliant with marking regulations.
Fines of R1,500 each were issued to two wholesalers by SAPS.
Steenhuisen emphasised that such inspections would expand to other provinces to ensure the integrity of goods sold to South Africans.
He urged consumers to report any suspiciously labelled food products, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting public health and consumer rights.
IOL