After receiving a tip-off, Registrar, Pharmacy & Poison Board, Khame Sharma, and Inspector of Pharmacy, Shivanand Geer along with a Police Officer, proceeded to a bond in West Ruimveldt, where the items were being packed onto the vehicle by labourers.
Following their timely intervention, a quantity of Carnation Milk, Mak-C drink mix, Dry Pigeon Peas, Delisa Nutrient Boost, Channa, Mixed Vegetables, and Royal Jello, along with Hugs Fruit Berry juice and gloves were seized and taken into the ministry’s bond for further investigation.
The storage condition of the goods were also deplorable and unhealthy, as rotting goods, such as potatoes, were seen among them and the labels were torn and discolored with mildew.
It is still unknown who is the owner of the goods. However, the canter owner pointed out that he was only required to move the items from the bond to another truck owner, who was supposed to transport them to Essequibo.
The ministry is urging distributors to check their products and verify that they are in line with the specifications of the Guyana Bureau of Standards. Distributors are reminded that the marketing of such products can result in legal consequences.
Consumers are also encouraged to ensure that they receive a bill for all transactions, when purchasing goods. This is to ensure that customers can be compensated, if the need arises.
The marketing of such goods are hazardous to human health, and for this reason the ministry will continue to be on the lookout for them on the local market. Citizens are advised to report any suspicious and similar activities or storage conditions brought to their attention, as they pose a threat to them and their families. [Extracted and modified from GINA]
