UNBS warns consumers on fake goods

By Vision Reporter

CONSUMERS have been warned to watch out against fake and expired goods that always flood the market during the festive season. 

Most of these goods, especially soft drinks and food stuffs, are counterfeits or expired, said Dr. Ben Manyindo, the executive director, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). He said unscrupulous traders always want to take advantage of the season’s excitement to dump their dangerous goods onto the market.

He advised consumers to carefully scrutinise goods before buying, especially the cheapest ones, saying they are mostly sold in downtown Kampala markets and by hawkers.

Manyindo advised consumers to look for the UNBS Q Mark (Quality Mark) and S Mark for locally manufactured goods to ensure they have been certified by UNBS. 

He also said they could report suspicious products to UNBS offices or call on a toll-free line 0800133133. 

He advised consumers to buy goods from a place where one can go back in case one gets a problem with the item.