Have you ever picked a product from the shelf of a store that was not labeled and because of that you ponder on what it was, what it is used for, how it is used, or of what it is made? Labels are essential to answer all these questions consumers may have regarding products.
Labels are intended to guide consumers by providing key information on the products they intend to purchase. A well labeled product provides consumers with information to make informed choices and ultimately give guidance as to the product quality and its monetary worth. Labels state how to care for a product and what the product contains. They also provide the necessary warning and precautionary information about products to help ensure the health and safety of users.
Labels of goods imported, manufactured and distributed in Guyana must comply with the requirements of the Guyana Standard Specification for the labeling of commodities – Part 1: General Principles which is a mandatory standard. This standard was developed to ensure manufacturers adequately label their goods so that consumers can select the goods best suited to their needs. Other standards are available at the Bureau of Standards that address the labeling requirements for specific goods, for example: the labeling of electrical appliances, labeling of footwear, labeling of animal feed, etc.
Consumers, when shopping, it is your responsibility to ensure that you take time to read and understand the labels of the goods you intend to purchase, especially if those goods can affect your health or safety.
Here are some labeling tips to keep in mind:
IDENTITY – Information about the producer/manufacturer must be stated. If the producer does not put his name and address on the label you should not buy the product. Also make sure you know what the product is, for example, “Benn’s Crunchies”, is this a breakfast cereal, snack or pet food?
CERTIFICATION MARKS – Throughout the world, there are standards bodies, independent regulatory bodies and testing laboratories which examine products to see if they meet quality standards. When they are satisfied that the Quality Assurance procedures are adequate, and the process, materials, and finished product are of consistently good quality, a mark is awarded. Regarding electric and electronic appliances, certification marks such as, CE, UL, CSA, FCC, NOM and CCC are placed on their labels to guide consumers who are trying to find quality products.
Product labels must be in English Language and should state the Brand, Type of product, Name of Manufacturer or Distributor, Country of Origin, and where necessary information on the care, maintenance and precautions for use, and the manufacture and expiry dates.
