An incident that happened this week has ignited a debate on social media regarding a Chinese shop selling instant noodles for an unbelievably low price which raised suspicion that was true. The noodles have passed their durable life period.

This behavior highlights the need for accountability to ensure that all businesses operate within the bounds of the law, as well as awareness of this matter. It is highly disrespectful and careless for this Chinese shop, or any business, to sell such goods to its customers.

Selling these products can lead to serious health issues, including food poisoning and other illnesses, undermining the well-being of the communities in Honiara. 

Furthermore, it decreases consumer confidence in businesses and can result in legal consequences. Products exceeding their best-before or expiration dates should never be sold because they no longer meet safety standards, and consuming them can pose significant risks.

Luckily, the Honiara City Council officers took quick action against the shop after being notified. However, these products have passed the best-before date over two months now, raising serious concerns about the shop’s negligence and disregard for consumer safety.

The delay in identifying and addressing this issue highlights the importance of regular inspections and vigilance in ensuring that businesses comply with food safety regulations.

The council’s intervention is a necessary step in protecting public health, but the incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement to prevent such lapses in the future.

This disgusting practice demonstrates an obvious disregard for both the law and the well-being of Honiara residents. Such practices suggest that these businesses are not concerned about adhering to legal standards or the potential consequences of violating them.

This lack of respect for the law not only puts consumers at risk but also undermines the integrity of the marketplace. By prioritizing profit over safety and compliance, these businesses reveal a troubling indifference to the rules designed to protect the public.

Note — the best-before date is not the same as the expiration date.

Photo on left – A best-before date on a food package states when the durable life period of the food ends. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, durable life means “the anticipated amount of time that an unopened food product, when stored under appropriate conditions, will retain its freshness, taste, nutritional value, or any other qualities claimed by the manufacturer.” This date can be found on a package underneath the words “best before.”

Photo on right- An expiry date is not the same as a best-before date. These dates are required on certain foods that have specific nutritional compositions that could falter after the determined expiration date. In other words, after the expiration date has passed, the food may not have the nutrient content as described on the label. Expiry dates are required for formulated liquid diets, foods sold by a pharmacist, meal replacements, nutritional supplements, and infant formula. If a food has passed its expiration date it should be discarded and not used.

Businesses have a responsibility to ensure that all goods offered for sale are safe, fresh, and of the highest quality, prioritizing the health and satisfaction of their customers.

So next time when you’re at a shop, check the best-before and expiry dates of the item before buying it.