The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into the conduct of Grandisync CC, the supplier of Howe Instant Noodles based in Uitenhage in the Eastern Cape. This investigation follows allegations of three children who died in the Eastern Cape, allegedly after consuming Howe 2 minute noodles. Acting National Consumer Commissioner Ms. Thezi Mabuza says, based on the information provided to the Commission by other regulators and the supplier, the NCC has reasonable suspicion to believe that Grandisync CC supplied unsafe goods or goods that posed a potential risk to the public. 

Acting Consumer Commissioner Mabuza said that while the Commission is awaiting laboratory results, this investigation will help the Commission understand the nature, causes, extent and degree of the risk to the public. "Consumer safety is at the heart of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA). Should our investigation reveal that indeed Grandisnyc CC contravened the provisions of the Act, we will refer the matter to the National Consumer Tribunal for the imposition of an administrative fine of 10% of their total annual turnover or R1 000 000 (One million rands); whichever is the greater" she added. 

"As regulators in the food safety environment, we will get to the bottom of this matter to ensure that those liable are held accountable. We urge consumers to practice good food hygiene. Suppliers are obligated to protect consumers;  where there are potential hazards, suppliers are required to inform the relevant regulators and consumers" Ms. Mabuza concluded. 

 

Issued by: National Consumer Commission (NCC)