SELLING EXPIRED GOODS: A Silent Threat to Public Health and Economic Growth

By Osman Bwanali

Across Malawi, many unsuspecting consumers are grappling with the growing menace of expired goods sold in shops. From staple foods to personal care items, expired products frequently find their way onto shelves, posing serious health, economic, and societal risks.

Despite regulations by the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS), non-compliance remains widespread, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement. Recent efforts by the MBS to crack down on such practices have been welcomed but warrant further reflection on sustainable solutions.

Selling expired goods compromises public health significantly. Consuming expired food or medication exposes individuals to risks such as food poisoning, allergic reactions, or reduced drug effectiveness, all of which can have fatal consequences. For example, expired baby formula can severely affect infants’ nutrition and health, exacerbating vulnerabilities in already struggling households.

The economic implications are equally concerning. The circulation of expired products undermines consumer confidence, leading to decreased sales and stunted market growth. Furthermore, businesses adhering to quality standards face unfair competition, as those ignoring regulations benefit from lower operational costs.

The repercussions extend beyond health and economics. Stocking expired goods reveals systemic failures in supply chain management, corporate accountability, and environmental responsibility. Improperly disposed expired products can pollute ecosystems, further highlighting the lack of ethical business practices.

Minister of Labour Vitumbiko Mumba’s initiative to shut down shops violating labour laws and MBS standards is a timely intervention. Such actions underscore government’s commitment to public health and safety over unscrupulous profit motives. The MBS’s role in enforcing compliance aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.

However, crackdowns alone are insufficient. Sustainable reforms are needed to address the root causes. Regular and surprise inspections must become a norm to enforce compliance. Innovative technologies like blockchain could improve traceability within supply chains. Educating the public to identify and report expired goods is equally critical. Empowered consumers can demand accountability and protect themselves from harm.

Hefty fines and mandatory corrective actions, such as inventory overhauls and staff retraining, should supplement shop closures. Critics may argue that such measures disrupt local economies, but the benefits—safer communities, robust markets, and restored trust—far outweigh the temporary inconveniences.

This fight is not just about following regulations; it’s about safeguarding Malawi’s health and economic future. Every Malawian has a role to play. Consumers must remain vigilant, and entrepreneurs must embrace ethical practices. Let the message be clear: compromising quality for profit has no place in a prosperous Malawi.