Seven milling companies found wanting

The Zambia Weights and Measures Agency (ZWMA) has found seven milling companies in Lusaka, Ndola, Luanshya, and Choma wanting for packaging and offering for sale underweight mealie meal contrary to the provisions of the Weights and Measures (Amendment) Act number 12, of 2003 and the Weights and Measures Regulations.

ZWMA Public relations officer Diana Ngula has named the milling companies as National Milling Company, APG Milling, Continental Milling and Mushe Milling all of Lusaka, and Jambo Milling in Ndola, Antelope Milling in Luanshya and Choma Milling in Choma.

Ms. Ngula explains that of the total 17,850 bags of mealie meal inspected, 17,450 bags were non- compliant as they all failed the average batch test.

She says the companies have since been ordered to re-pack all the underweight bags of mealie meal to meet the quantity as declared on the packaging.

Ms. Ngula adds that the agency will engage the milling companies to offer them training in related legal metrology requirements.

She states that the agency will not relent in its role to protect consumers by regulating measurements, thus fostering fair trade practices in the country.