Ingredients must be displayed in Burmese for ready-to-eat foods

The Department of Consumer Affairs has announced that if it is found during inspections that many ready-to-eat foods do not have sufficient ingredient labeling in Burmese or other languages, action will be taken under the Consumer Protection Law. Section 73 of the Consumer Protection Law stipulates that if goods are found without ingredient labeling in Burmese, offenders may be sentenced to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or a fine not exceeding 20 million kyats, or both. If ingredient labeling in Burmese is not accurately displayed on ready-to-eat foods, consumers who purchase and consume them may not be able to distinguish whether allergenic substances are present, potentially leading to life-threatening situations. Therefore, to ensure that consumers can purchase and consume safely without suffering harm, it is necessary to display ingredient labeling in Burmese in accordance with the Consumer Protection Law, according to an official from the Department of Consumer Affairs. Currently, the Department of Consumer Affairs is monitoring and inspecting eight product groups to see if they comply with the ingredient labeling requirements of the Consumer Protection Law. In addition, to inform consumers and manufacturers about ingredient labeling, awareness campaigns, distribution of leaflets, and discussions are being conducted. Inspections are also being carried out weekly and monthly at department stores, markets, and school canteens in various states and regions. Consumers who suffer losses can report to the Consumer Information & Complaint Centers (CICC) and the Consumer Call Center (1535) in their respective states and regions.