Unauthorised foods, drugs and beauty products sold at Mrauk-U market

By Admin 26 Jul 2023

DMG Newsroom
26 July 2023, Mrauk-U

The Arakan State Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified prohibited drugs and cosmetics being sold in Mrauk-U’s central market.

Officials from the relevant departments led by the FDA carried out checks in the market on Monday and Tuesday, and found that five pharmacies and two cosmetics stores were selling banned products.

“We found illegal and expired medicines as well as unregistered medicines,” said Dr. Tin Ko Win of the Arakan State FDA. We also found prohibited beauty products. Sellers have signed [documentation indicating] that they would not sell such products again. If we find them selling such products next time, we will take legal action against them.”

The FDA inspectors also found that a local bottling plant in Mrauk-Uhas been operating with an expired licence, and three others are operating without licences. The agency warned the businesses to register within one month or face legal consequences.

The FDA said it will carry out checks in all Arakan State townships to see if prohibited goods are being sold in their markets. Consumers say they have seen a recent influx of food, medicine and beauty products that are not FDA-certified.

“Usually, most people look at the expiry date when they buy a product, and they don’t usually check if the product is FDA-certified,” said Sittwe resident Ko Kyaw Than.

Prolonged consumption or use of prohibited foods, medicines and cosmetics can result in cancer, as well as stomach, kidney and liver problems, the FDA has warned.

Locals have called on the FDA to take a tough stance on the sale of prohibited products.

“Manufacturers produce food without conducting food safety tests. So, I want the FDA to open offices in every township and systematically regulate food safety,” said Daw Tin Htay from Yartike Village in Pauktaw Township.