Modern market selling illegal products

Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan (AntaranewsKalsel) - A number of modern markets in Banjarmasin sell illegal products for various reasons ranging from expired license number to unlicensed circulation from the Center for Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BBPOM).

"From the results of our recent raids in a number of modern markets there are 15 items with the number of packaging 1,201 cans or packets of food products were categorized as illegal," said Head of BBPOM Banjarmasin Sapari here, Thursday.

During the inspection at Hypermart Duta Mall, BBPOM found palm sugar (Jumbo brand) contained rhodamin B or a dye substance of textile dye and Date & Fate brand snack which permit expired.

Then at Lotte Wholesale Jalan Ahmad Yani Km 4 Banjarmasin, BBPOM officers found canned fish products of Baliko as many as 1,117 cans whose permit also expired.

While at Giant Express at Km 6, the agency confiscated 82 cans of six items of fish products and canned meat of Maya brand also expired it circulation permit.

"All products proven to violate were confiscated to be used as evidence, while the managers were given strong warnings not to sell similar products," he said.

He said BBPOM officers also checked a number of stores. Of the 95 facilities examined in seven districts and municipalities in South Kalimantan, 18 of them did not meet the requirements, because the product was found to be ineligible from expiration, damaged to not meet the label requirements.

"Our officers found 61 items with 883 packs and economic value of Rp9,265,160 in violation of the provisions to be taken to the extent of the destruction and warning and there is also a return to the producers," he said.

For illegal cosmetics products, he said BBPOM, took legal action against owners who sell fake cosmetics in Central Hulu Sungai with the discovery of 3,097 packs worth Rp67.455.000.

"Public is expected to be smart consumers and always remember to check to ensure good packaging conditions, check product information on the label, check the BPOM license and make sure not exceed the expiration period," said Sapari.