Koudougou: Over 1,000 tons of expired products have been seized in a food production unit by the National Coordination for the Fight Against Fraud (CNLF). The operation took place on Friday, May 8, involving a company named Faso Epicerie, as observed by AIB.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the operation was prompted by information received by the CNLF about potential fraudulent practices within Faso Epicerie. Dr. Mohamadi Compaore, the national coordinator for the fight against fraud, explained that intelligence led agents to the company, which produces food intended for public consumption.
Upon inspection, agents found a concerning situation marked by the presence of a significant quantity of expired raw materials, estimated at over 500,000 bags or approximately 1,000 tons. Dr. Compaore highlighted that the expired products included raw materials like sodium glutamate, a common ingredient in the food industry.
The investigation also uncovered fraudulent manipulations of expiry dates. Some cartons showed backdated expiry dates, with newly packaged products displaying dates extending to 2024, 2025, or 2027. Dr. Compaore described this as a deceptive maneuver aimed at misleading consumers.
These practices violate Law No. 016-2017/AN concerning competition organization in Burkina Faso. Articles 56, 60, and 72 of this law penalize consumer deception and the sale of non-compliant products. Article 102 prescribes fines ranging from 500,000 FCFA to 500 million FCFA and prison sentences from one to five years.
The head of Faso Epicerie is expected to be summoned for questioning to explain the origin of these practices. Dr. Compaore urged industrial unit promoters to adhere to moral, health, and regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of industrializing Burkina Faso in compliance with public health requirements.
Consumers are advised to remain vigilant, as some of the brand's products might already be in the local market. Following the questioning of those responsible, the seized products will be disclosed to the public to increase awareness and caution among consumers.
This action reflects the Burkinabe authorities' determination to clean up the industrial sector and ensure food security for the population. Recent reports indicate that the company manager and two technicians have been arrested by the CNLF as part of the ongoing procedure.