- Nine sanitary pad suppliers are under investigation after a University of the Free State study found possible endocrine-disrupting chemicals in some products used by women and girls across South Africa.
- The investigation will examine compliance with the Consumer Protection Act, especially the right to safe, quality, and durable goods.
- Suppliers may need to submit lab results or conduct testing, and product recalls are possible if they do not comply.
Millions of women and girls who use sanitary pads every month now have serious questions about the safety of the products meant for everyday use.
A formal investigation has started into nine sanitary pad suppliers after a university study raised concerns about the potential presence of harmful chemicals in specific products.
The National Consumer Commission confirmed that it is aware of the study done by the University of the Free State, titled “The Presence of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Sanitary Pads: A Study Done in South Africa.”
According to the findings shared in a media statement, certain sanitary pads and panty liners may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols.
These chemicals have been linked to health issues, including hormonal imbalances, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Given that women and girls frequently use these products, the possible health risks make this issue more than just a compliance problem; it raises national public health concerns.
Background to the investigation
The investigation aims to review whether suppliers comply with the Consumer Protection Act. The focus is on Sections 55 and 24 of the Act, which guarantee consumers the right to receive goods that are suitable for their intended use and of good quality.
The Commission stated that the Act requires products to be free from defects and usable for a reasonable time. Therefore, the investigation will look at whether the products identified in the study meet these standards.
At the same time, the suppliers will need to conduct tests on the affected products or provide the latest lab results that indicate the presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, if applicable. Once the results are in, they will be evaluated to see if product recall provisions should be enacted under Section 60 of the Consumer Protection Act.
Parties and responses
The suppliers involved in the investigation include Kimberly Clark of SA Pty Ltd trading as Kotex, Proctor and Gamble Pty Ltd trading as Always, Anna Organics, The Lion Match Company Pty Ltd trading as Comfitex, Here We Flo trading as Flo, Johnson and Johnson Pty Ltd trading as Stay Free, Premier Group of Companies trading as Lil lets, Essity Hygiene and Health AB trading as Libresse South Africa, and My Time.
Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu emphasized the significance of the findings. He said, “The findings of the study raise serious concerns for women and girls that require an investigation, making this a priority.”
He added that fairness will be maintained throughout the process. “The affected suppliers will have a chance to respond to the concerns during the investigation before the NCC makes any decisions,” he stated.
The Commission also confirmed that it will collaborate with other stakeholders and regulatory authorities during the investigation.
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