Local manufacturers, exporters and importers have been given until 14th October to tidy up their dealings and ensure that food items they sell fall into the required standard, or they will face the full brunt of the law.

Health Ministry media liaison officer Iliesa Tora said they have set up the Food Control Unit to monitor the requirements included in the Food Safety Act which was gazetted on 5th June.

Tora said standard requirements cover labeling rules and packaging, food additives and nutrient supplements required, commodity standards for milk and milk products, edible fats and oils, fruits, vegetables and their products, cereal and cereal products, sugars and honey, spices and salt, beverages for infants and other vulnerable populations.

Tora added the ministry is serious about enforcing the Act because it is concerned with the rise in obesity and anemia in the country and if nothing is done, our future generations will be far less healthy than we are right now.

Penalties for those who are found to be guilty of fooling the system range from getting a $2000 fine, a 12 month prison term or both.