MWE Correspondent
Tanzanian consumers are facing growing risks from substandard and potentially unsafe food products flooding local markets. From questionable milk powder to flours with undisclosed additives, shoppers often have no way of knowing what they are consuming, raising concerns about long-term health impacts.
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) is under increasing pressure to safeguard the public. Experts warn that expired, unregulated, or poorly labeled products are not just a matter of poor quality—they are a serious health threat, contributing to the rise of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions that could otherwise be prevented with proper oversight.
Consumer advocates point out that the problem goes beyond mere expiration dates. Many products, including imported formula milk and packaged goods, carry foreign labels that most parents cannot read. Some items enter the market without proper licensing or certification, leaving consumers in the dark about the true nature of the products they are feeding their families.
“There is an urgent need for public education campaigns,” said a health policy expert. “Consumers must be aware of the dangers of counterfeit or substandard products. Frequent alerts, clear labeling, and visible enforcement can save lives and prevent long-term health problems.”
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Recent reports indicate that unsafe and untested food products are widespread in markets across Tanzania, from urban centers to smaller towns. Public health specialists are calling for a multi-pronged approach: regular inspections, testing of food items, and penalties for sellers who violate safety regulations. Without consistent enforcement, the risk to public health will continue to escalate.
Globally, unsafe food is a recognized public health concern. According to the World Health Organization, contaminated or substandard foods cause millions of illnesses and deaths each year, particularly in countries with less robust regulatory systems. Tanzania, experts say, must strengthen its oversight mechanisms to prevent similar consequences at home.
Consumers are being urged to check product labels carefully, verify certifications, and report suspicious or unlicensed items. Meanwhile, regulators are expected to intensify efforts to monitor, educate, and enforce standards. The safety of the nation’s food supply, experts emphasize, depends on a combination of informed consumers and vigilant authorities working together.
