RM42,000 worth of fake baby milk powder was found in Johor Bahru

By Eli Sulaiman  •  13 Dec 2017 in News

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An investigation into the possibility of fake infant formula circulating in the markets began after the original milk producer, Mead Johnson, received complaints from consumers. According to NST, the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism (KPDNKK) confirmed that the 210 boxes of infant formula seized were knock-offs.

Five locations in Johor Bahru City which included shops and pharmacies were raided on Dec 7. The stores that were raided are located in Iskandar Puteri, Taman Mutiara Rini, Taman Orkid, Taman Daya and Taman Nusa Bestari.

The fake infant formula was sold at RM200, the same price as the original infant formula.

Although there were only 210 boxes of counterfeit baby milk powder found and within a specific area, investigations are still being carried out throughout the nation to ensure absolute safety and a complete elimination of fake infant formula.

First time offenders will face a RM10,000 fine for each item seized or a jail term, not exceeding three years or both. Second time offenders face a RM20,000 fine for each item seized or jail term, not exceeding five years or both.

This incident brings concern to whether there are fake infant formulas being sold in other parts of the country. Store owners, Malaysian authorities and parents are wondering how to determine whether the milk powder is fake or real.

In the meantime, an important note from the producers of Enfagrow has been displayed on their website highlighting some key traits to look for to distinguish between fake and real:

Mead Johnson claims that only their Enfalac A+ Step 1 in 1.8kg boxes were affected.

An image showing the packaging traits between a real and counterfeit product is provided on their facebook page to help customers look out for themselves.

Samples of the original and knock-off powders are still being examined in the lab to determine what different compounds have been used and whether they are harmful.

KPDNKK Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin made it clear that those behind the intentional distribution of fake baby milk powder will be publicly revealed when they are caught.

Malaysians, please look out for each other and come forward to the authorities if you find anything suspicious.