The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into nine sanitary pad suppliers after a South African study found that some menstrual products contain harmful hormone‑disrupting chemicals.
The move follows research by the University of the Free State (UFS), which detected endocrine‑disrupting chemicals (EDCs) – including parabens, phthalates and bisphenols – in sanitary pads and panty liners sold locally.
NCC acting commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said these chemicals are associated with serious health risks.
“These chemicals are linked to health complications such as hormonal imbalance, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products monthly and based on this, the NCC has initiated an investigation,” Ratshisusu said.
Brands under investigation
The following suppliers and brands are being probed:
- Kimberly‑Clark of SA (Pty) Ltd – Kotex
- Procter & Gamble (Pty) Ltd – Always
- Anna Organics
- The Lion Match Company (Pty) Ltd – trading as Comfitex
- Here We Flo – trading as Flo
- Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd – trading as Stayfree
- Premier Group of Companies – trading as Lil‑lets
- Essity Hygiene and Health AB – trading as Libresse South Africa
- My Time
What the NCC is checking
Ratshisusu said the investigation will review whether these suppliers are complying with the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), particularly:
- Section 55 – the right to receive goods that are:
- reasonably suitable for their intended purpose,
- of good quality and in good working order,
- free of defects, and
- usable and durable for a reasonable time.
- Section 24 – requirements around product information, labelling and trade descriptions.
The NCC will require the companies to:
- Conduct tests on the affected products for EDCs, or
- Submit their latest laboratory results that already tested for these chemicals, if such tests were done.
Once the NCC receives and reviews the results, it will decide whether to trigger product recall procedures under section 60 of the CPA.
Possible recalls and next steps
Ratshisusu said the study’s findings raised “serious concerns affecting women and girls”, making this a priority investigation for the commission.
“The affected suppliers will be afforded an opportunity to respond to the concerns as part of the investigation before the NCC makes a determination on the matter,” he said.
The NCC will also engage with other regulators and stakeholders as the probe continues, which could shape future safety standards and oversight for menstrual health products in South Africa.
Follow Us on Twitter
