The Consumer Protection Agency warned against purchasing or trading any products of unknown origin or those lacking essential information, as the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday approaches and amid increased consumer demand for various types of Mawlid sweets. The agency stressed the importance of verifying the source of the sweets, as well as the safety, integrity, and validity of the packaging before purchasing, in order to protect the health and safety of citizens and their families.
The agency emphasized that purchasing Mawlid sweets from unknown sources or products that do not clearly display information about the manufacturer, production date, expiration date, and product ingredients poses an unjustified risk, particularly given the possibility that such products may not meet the required standards and regulations or may have been handled and stored under improper conditions. This could affect their safety and quality and expose consumers to health risks, in addition to making it difficult to identify the party responsible for the product in the event of any violation.
In this regard, Ibrahim El-Segini, Chairman of the Consumer Protection Agency, stressed that the health and safety of citizens are a top priority for the agency. He emphasized the need not to be misled by low prices or the product’s external appearance and the importance of verifying the source of Mawlid sweets and ensuring that they carry the required basic information. He noted that the agency would show no leniency toward any attempts to exploit the season by offering products of unknown origin or products that do not meet the required standards in pursuit of illicit profits at the expense of citizens’ health and rights.
The agency’s chairman explained that regulatory campaigns during the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday season will cover various markets, shops, retail outlets, warehouses, and establishments involved in the sale and distribution of Mawlid sweets. Field inspections and surprise campaigns will be intensified to detect any products of unknown origin or those lacking the required information, deal with violations immediately, and take legal action against violators, ensuring tighter market oversight and preventing the circulation of unsafe or non-compliant products.
The Consumer Protection Agency advises citizens to purchase Mawlid sweets from trusted stores and establishments, check the condition of the packaging, ensure there is no damage or change in the product’s appearance or smell, read the information displayed on the packaging, and verify the production date, expiration date, product ingredients, and the name and address of the manufacturer. The agency also stresses the importance of ensuring that the sweets are handled and stored under appropriate conditions and are not exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Consumers should avoid purchasing products displayed in unsuitable storage conditions or those showing any signs of damage or deterioration, as well as products that do not clearly indicate their source.
The agency urges citizens to immediately report any violations, non-compliant products, or attempts to sell sweets of unknown origin or unfit for consumption through the official communication channels of the Consumer Protection Agency. It reaffirmed its continued regulatory campaigns and firm action against any violations that threaten citizens’ health and safety or infringe upon their rights, contributing to more regulated markets and reinforcing citizens’ right to obtain safe products that meet the required standards.
Source: The National Media Authority online portal
