The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into several sanitary pad and panty liner suppliers following a study by the University of the Free State.
The research, titled “The presence of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in sanitary pads: A study done in South Africa”, found that certain products may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols.
These chemicals have been linked to serious health risks, including hormonal imbalances, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products each month.
The investigation targets the following suppliers whose products were reportedly tested in the study:
Kimberly-Clark of SA (PTY) Ltd (Kotex)
Procter & Gamble (PTY) Ltd (Always)
Anna Organics
The Lion Match Company (PTY) Ltd (Comfitex)
Here We Flo (Flo)
Johnson & Johnson (PTY) Ltd (Stay Free)
Premier Group of Companies (Lil-lets)
Essity Hygiene and Health AB (Libresse South Africa)
My Time
The NCC will assess whether these products comply with the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), specifically sections 24 and 55, which guarantee consumers goods that are safe, of good quality, free of defects, and fit for their intended purpose.
Suppliers will be asked to provide laboratory test results or conduct fresh testing for EDCs in their products. The NCC will evaluate the results to determine if a product recall, as outlined in section 60 of the CPA, is necessary.
Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said the study’s findings “raise serious concerns affecting women and girls that warrant an investigation, making this a priority investigation. The affected suppliers will be afforded an opportunity to respond as part of the process before the NCC makes a determination.”
The commission also plans to engage with other stakeholders and regulatory authorities during the course of the investigation.