Concerns have arisen after reports surfaced that vehicles bearing the SABCO Sardines logo were observed dumping large quantities of expired sardines at the Bumeh Dump site on Friday, August 23, 2024. Eyewitnesses also noted the disposal of various other wastes alongside the sardines.

Authorities are being called upon to thoroughly investigate SABCO for failing to notify the public about the expiration of some of their products before they were discarded. This oversight could have led unsuspecting consumers to purchase the expired products or allowed unscrupulous traders to alter the expiry dates, thereby putting public health at risk. The Standards Bureau is urged to ensure that all expired items are accounted for and managed appropriately. There is a demand for scrutiny and transparency from SABCO in handling this matter.

This incident comes only months after President Julius Maada Bio inaugurated the SABCO Fish Canning Factory, which was presented as a significant private sector investment with the potential to create thousands of jobs. The President had praised SABCO’s role in the FEED SALONE initiative, which aims to increase locally sourced protein and improve food security. However, this situation raises serious concerns about the company's commitment to quality and safety standards.

Previously, SABCO’s Chief Financial Officer, Abess Sabbagh, had emphasized the company's dedication to quality and community development.

Sardines, known for their long shelf life due to the canning process, are a common pantry staple, with unopened cans typically lasting between two to five years, depending on the manufacturing date and storage conditions. The fact that expired sardines were dumped less than two years after the factory began production casts doubt on SABCO’s adherence to these standards.

As this situation unfolds, the media will continue to investigate and monitor developments closely.