The Government Analyst- Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) wishes to again advise consumers to exercise caution and be very alert when purchasing food, drugs, cosmetics or medical devices during the festive season. In this regard consumers are reminded to ensure that items purchased are in the English language, have a clear written expiry date and to pay particular attention to items that are offered for sale at a significantly reduced price.
The Department has been increasingly intercepting substandard items of food, drugs, cosmetics and medical devices on our market which have either been refused entry into Guyana or seized and removed from premises. In some cases, items are either: in a foreign language, being offered for sale at significantly reduced prices, expired for as long as eighteen years or would have had their expiry date deliberately removed or do not meet our regulatory standard.
Officers of the Department and members of our National Food Safety and Control Committee (NFSCC) will continue to monitor activities regarding the trade of substandard items that fall under the supervision of the GA-FDD consumers arenevertheless encouraged to be on the alert especially during the festive season and to report any substandard food, drug, cosmetic or medical device seen on our local market to the GA-FDD at 222-8857(9) or to any Public Health officer in the region or municipalities.
Be safe. Remember to keep your hands clean by washing or sanitizing, wear a mask and practice social distancing.
SEASON’S GREETINGS AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS!