Concerns raised over product’s content

HEALTH and HIV-AIDS Minister Jelta Wong is concerned by reports on production of cheap alcoholic beverages which may pose a health risk to consumers.
Wong instructed health officials to investigate and ensure the alcohol content of the reported products met the standards for such products and were fit for human consumption.
“From mainstream media reports (EMTV) early this year, it is alarming from the use of the beverage in Lae city and so being concerned, I have tasked health specialists to conduct further tests on its alcohol percentage and effects of such products if verified to be true,” he said.
The alcoholic beverage known as Wanbel Blueberry Punch along with other similar products labelled under the Wanbel trademark and is produced by Wanbel Industries Ltd in Lae, Morobe.
“I understand Lae city authorities under Lae MP John Rosso, are investigating the matter as a priority and as Health Minister, if the products are proven to be dangerous, I will not hesitate to ban them under the Food Sanitation Act,” Wong said.
He said alcohol consumption was a contributing factor in 25 chronic diseases and conditions, and played a significant role in certain concerns, psychiatric conditions along with cardiovascular and digestive diseases.
“Alcohol when abused also plays a devastating role that leads to social disorder, law and order problems, and accidents with adverse consequences that put a big strain on Government services that are avoidable.”
Wong said because of these reasons, he had now instructed Heath Department officials with stakeholders to ensure products were safe for human consumption.
Wong appealed to citizens to be wise in their consumption of alcoholic beverages and be vigilant of the adverse health and social effects that they use and abuse this products.