Leader: Ban yeast

THE government is urged to ban imports of yeast as a means to cut escalating homebrew production and drinking by youths in the country.
Former Burum-Kuat councillor Kunas Talevu raised the concern after noting that illegal brewing of steam (homebrew) in city settlements was claimed as a major contributing factor to social disorder.
He said the answer to stopping homebrew was to ban yeast imports or to stop its sale in shops.
He said only licensed companies should be allowed to use yeast.
City settlements in Lae have experienced homebrew-related issues in Kamkumung, Miles area, Kapiak Street and Bumbu, resulting in the loss of lives, destruction of properties and leaving innocent families homeless.
Lae metropolitan police commander Supt Nema Mondiai said proper research needed to be carried out to verify and substantiate the impact of the sale of yeast.
“Although yeast is one of the main ingredients used in homebrew production, we need thorough research before submitting the findings for the government to consider,” Mondiai said.
He said in-depth research needed to be carried out to substantiate what ingredients were combined to make homebrew.
“From the thorough research, we will understand related items used in homebrew production and the impacts and implications it may cause to companies so we need to be mindful when setting measures to address the issue,” Mondiai said.
He said yeast, cordial and sugar were made for different purposes but people abused them to brew illicit alcohol.