UNBS closes juice factory over poor standards

As a consumer protection measure, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has closed factory premises of Sunshare Investment Limited in Mukono Municipality, until further notice over failure to comply with set standards in its production processes.

UNBS head of Public Relations, Godwin Muhwezi on Tuesday said; Sunshare Investments is known for production of the lucky brand of juices including mango, pineapple and orange flavours.

"Laboratory analysis carried out by UNBS on product samples submitted for testing indicated high level of free Chlorine in the product contrary to the requirements of the Standard (US 47: 2011) for juices and other non-carbonated drinks," he said.

He said according to the standard, juices and non-carbonated drinks should be free from chlorine because of its adverse effects on human health.  He said chlorine reacts with water to form acids which are poisonous to human body once consumed.

“Chlorine is an active ingredient used in disinfectants such as JIK to sterilise water and kill bacteria and other micro-organisms. However, high levels of chlorine results in production of toxic substances that may lead to damage of internal body organs. The premises of Sunshare factory shall remain closed until when the company directors have demonstrated that they have put corrective measures in place to ensure that such contamination does happen in future”, he said.

Muhwezi called upon the public to remain vigilant and report any cases of substandard products on the market on their toll-free line: 0800 133 133.

He said UNBS will continue to perform its mandate of enforcing standards, to protect consumer health and safety and the environment against dangerous and sub-standard products.