In reaction to safety concerns regarding the use of sanitary pads, the government will respond to research findings indicating that many of the products readily available in South Africa may be harmful on Sunday 8 March.
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Free State published their research findings on sanitary pads in February, which indicated some sanitary pads and panty liners may contain harmful endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenols, parabens and phthalates.
During a joint media briefing, the government will, through Social Protection, Community and Human Development cluster, respond to and clarify the implications of the findings.
Affects millions of women and girls
Concerns about the impact this may have on millions of women and girls were widespread, with government departments and public entities with regulatory mandates being overwhelmed enquiries.
Dr Aaron Motsoaledi , the Minister of Health, will co-chair the cluster and will brief the media to clarify the health and regulatory implications. He will also address some of the concerns raised by individuals and groups.
Some of the panellists to attend the briefing include Ministries of Health; Women, Youth and people with disabilities; Trade Industry and Competition, National Consumer Commission as well as local and international experts.
Investigation
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has indicated earlier that it will investigate the matter.
“These EDCs are linked to health complications such as hormonal imbalance, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products monthly,” it said in a statement.
“Based on this information, the NCC has initiated an investigation against the following suppliers whose products were apparently tested in the study: Kimberly-Clark of SA (PTY) Ltd (Kotex), Procter and Gamble (PTY) Ltd (Always), Anna Organics, The Lion Match Company (PTY) Ltd trading as Comfitex, Here We Flo trading as Flo, Johnson & 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.
It will review and assess the suppliers’ compliance with the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), which states that consumers have the right to receive goods that are reasonably suitable for their intended purposes. Consumers also have the right to goods that are of good quality and in good working order. The goods must be free of defects and usable and durable for a reasonable time.
