New Guidelines for the Packaging of Sugar

Consumers; pre-packers and resellers of sugar are reminded that the new guidelines for the packaging of sugar, which became effective July 1, state that the sugar should be packaged, sealed and labelled.

Pre-packers must also be registered with the National Compliance and Regulatory Authority (NCRA).

The revised mandatory standards require the inclusion of more detailed labelling, such as product name and brand name; net content; name and address of manufacturers, distributors, importers or vendors; storage conditions; country of origin; lot identification; date markings; and instructions for use.

Sugar must not be packaged at the point of sale, but must be sold in sealed, labelled packages; and there should be no foreign matter in the sugar that may compromise food safety or may be hazardous to health.

The facilities preparing the sugar for sale must also implement a food-safety system.

Non-compliance with the guidelines can result in steep fines and confiscation of the product.