NUGEGODA, Sri Lanka — The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) on Wednesday sealed four warehouses belonging to a leading food importer in Nugegoda after a surprise inspection uncovered multiple alleged violations of consumer protection regulations.
The warehouses, situated along Pagoda Road, were reportedly engaged in the distribution of bulk food products to hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and retail markets across the country.
According to CAA officials, the raid revealed a wide range of food products stored within the facilities, including dairy products such as cheese and butter, chocolate and cocoa powder, canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, meat products, and various raw materials used in bakery manufacturing.
Investigators found that a significant quantity of products lacked mandatory importer information required under Sri Lankan regulations. Authorities also discovered that certain food items had been repackaged into alternative containers without preserving critical labeling information, including manufacturing dates, expiry dates, and product identification details.
In a further cause for concern, officials uncovered stocks of expired food products that had allegedly been prepared for distribution, raising serious questions about food safety standards and compliance practices within the operation.
The CAA warned that such practices pose a substantial threat to public health and consumer welfare, particularly when food products enter commercial supply chains serving hotels, restaurants, and food manufacturers.
Comprehensive investigations have been launched, and the Authority indicated that legal action is expected against the business establishment and individuals responsible under the provisions of the Consumer Affairs Authority Act.
The incident highlights the importance of maintaining transparency and traceability within the food supply chain, particularly at a time when consumers are increasingly concerned about food quality and safety standards.
The CAA has urged consumers, food manufacturers, hotel operators, and retailers to carefully examine product labels before purchase, ensuring that manufacturing dates, expiry dates, importer details, and other mandatory information are clearly displayed and verifiable.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to conducting regular inspections and taking firm action against businesses found to be violating food safety and consumer protection laws.
