SONGWE: THE Tanzania Bureau of Standards has reinstated its call for the public to monitor product expiration dates to prevent serious health risks, including food contamination that can lead to foodborne diseases.
Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) Marketing Officer Mr Mussa Luhombero said that this practice helps prevent the purchase of expired products that could jeopardise consumer health.
“This approach not only safeguards individual health but also fosters a culture of accountability and heightened consumer awareness in the market,” he said.
Mr Luhombero made these remarks on Monday during a public education campaign in Songwe, aimed at promoting the importance of using quality-certified products.
The officer said consuming products within their safe usage period helps consumers minimise exposure to harmful bacteria, degraded ingredients and ineffective medicines.
Foodborne diseases include salmonella, listeriosis and botulism, allergic reactions and complications from ineffective medicines, such as resistance or worsened conditions.
“This vigilance fosters a healthier society, reduces healthcare costs and promotes trust in the market, encouraging manufacturers and sellers to uphold high standards of safety and quality,” he said.
To address this issue, he urged consumers to develop the habit of reading product labels before purchasing to ensure the items are safe for consumption.
The campaign, which recently took place in Mbozi, Songwe, Momba District Councils and Tunduma Town Council, reached a wide audience, including residents in markets, bus stands and open-air markets.
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These community outreach efforts provided valuable education on product quality and standards, empowering consumers to make informed choices.
Mr Luhombero also urged entrepreneurs and traders to ensure they sell only TBS-certified products and to register their food and cosmetics businesses to avoid potential legal and health issues.
He stressed that businesses must uphold quality standards not only to protect public health but also to enhance their reputation and consumer trust.
Additionally, he explained the critical role that standards play in everyday life, encouraging the public to act as ambassadors for quality in their communities.
By promoting awareness and compliance, citizens can help create a safer, more transparent marketplace.
