WATCH THOSE LABELS - PART II

(Continued from last week)

Batch Numbers
Batch numbers are important for tracing a particular product, especially for the purpose of quality checks and recalls.

Manufactures' Name and Address, Country of Origin
These are especially important, particularly for the purpose of redress, which is a consumer right.

Net Quantity /Weight
Important in terms of value for money and especially critical for those who require a specific quantity of product for specific use, i.e. persons on a specific diet, persons preparing dishes or mixtures with specific measurements for ingredients. Imagine the implications if net quantity is misleading.

It is important to note that the CAC is working with the Bureau of Standards in protecting consumer rights re labelling so as to ensure that our consumers receive high quality goods and services, which are safe and healthy, and which are in keeping with their rights. Consumers however have a responsibility to check the item they intend to purchase to ensure that it bears the required labelling, thus aiding in their own protection of self.

Another dangerous practice the CAC urges consumers to avoid is that of purchasing certain pharmaceutical products from informal vendors; especially those parcelled out in unmarked retail containers, e.g. plastic bags. This is an unwise and unsafe practice. Medication taken in the incorrect dosage or manner may lead to irreversible damage to internal damage or endanger the very life of the consumer. Skin care products used in the wrong dosage or incorrect combinations may permanently damage the skin or put the consumer at risk of certain skin infections and cancer.

The Commission is aware that in the climate of wage freezes, loss of jobs amidst the rising cost for goods and services, such as medical doctors and dermatologist, among others, consumers may feel that they must seek ingenious ways of avoiding certain expenses in order to save money.
The CAC however urges consumers to purchase their goods and services from reputable sources. Read label and follow instructions. Ensure that in your bid to cut cost and save you do not throw away your rights and your money, and in some cases, place your health in danger.

Tell us what issues you want addressed

Send e-mail to: cacjam@infochan.com or star@gleaner.com

Write to us at: 1B Holborn Road, Kingston 10 Or call us at: 926-1650-2 or toll free 1-888-991-4470, ask for our Information Desk