The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has launched a special island-wide inspection and investigation programme targeting the sale of bread below the prescribed weight, as well as the failure to properly display the weight and retail price of bread.

During the special operation, CAA officials had inspected a total of 107 retail outlets and bakeries.

The inspections identified 35 instances involving the sale of underweight bread. In addition, 85 establishments were found to have failed to display the weight of bread, while 55 establishments had not displayed the applicable bread prices.

As part of the operation, 71 bakeries were also inspected.

The CAA stated that, when underweight bread is detected, investigations will not be limited to the respective retailer but will also be extended to the bakery responsible for manufacturing the product.

Officials have been instructed to verify the weight of bread produced at the relevant bakeries. Where violations are established, the manufacturers will be directed to take immediate corrective measures in their production processes.

The CAA further stated that legal proceedings will be initiated before the relevant Magistrate’s Courts where sufficient evidence is available to substantiate an offence.

A previous inspection programme conducted in September resulted in inspections of 118 retail outlets and bakeries, during which 54 instances involving the sale of underweight bread were identified.

Accordingly, the two inspection programmes have resulted in a total of 225 retail outlets and bakeries being inspected, with 89 cases relating to the sale of underweight bread recorded.