The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has seized nine metric tonnes of contraband cosmetics containing hydroquinone worth about forty million shillings (US$11,325).
The contraband that had brand names such as Cream Caratone, Cream Maxi Light Body and Cream Skin Light Body was imported into the country from Ivory Coast by Nabco Rema (U) Ltd.
‘Laboratory analysis of the samples taken from the seized cosmetics confirmed presence of hydroquinone; it (hydroquinone) has been known to cause skin conditions such as; skin discoloration, photosensitivity and in extreme cases, cancer’ a release by UNBS indicates.
According to the standards body, the cosmetics seized late last month, are required to be re-exported or destroyed within 21 days in accordance with the UNBS Imports Inspection and Clearance Regulations, 2015.
‘UNBS cautions all those who have retail or whole sale outlets and had already purchased such products to contact them through toll free line on (0800)133 133 for assistance,’ the release further states.
