SABCO Sardine Products Deemed Safe and Suitable

August 29, 2024

In response to recent allegations that SABCO, a well-known seafood company, was caught disposing of expired sardines, the company's Human Resources Manager, Zainab Tejan Bangura, has firmly denied the claims. Bangura clarified that SABCO only began production in February 2024, with their sardine products having a shelf life of four to five years before expiration.

During an on-site inspection at SABCO's facilities in Jui, Western Rural District, on August 27, 2024, attended by the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Fatmata Kargbo, and officials from the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and Consumer Protection Commission, it was revealed that the company had disposed of organic waste, not expired products. The waste, consisting of fish by-products, was properly disposed of at the Bomeh dumping site in Freetown.

Bangura emphasized that SABCO's production process is thoroughly regulated and their products meet both national and international standards, ensuring they are safe for consumption in local and global markets. The Deputy Minister praised SABCO for their contribution to employment and the economy and cautioned against unfair competition that could undermine the government's Feed Salone initiative.

The Sierra Leone Standards Bureau's Executive Director, Dr. John Paul Kaisam, advised SABCO to involve relevant stakeholders, including the Office of National Security and the Ministry of Health, in future waste disposal processes to maintain transparency.