YLKI Highlights Alleged Nutritional Discrepancies in Fortified Rice, Urges Investigation

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has issued a serious note regarding allegations that fortified rice—rice enriched with specific vitamins—contains nutritional levels that do not align with the information provided on product labels. This discrepancy is viewed as a potential violation of fundamental consumer rights.

YLKI Chairperson Niti Emiliana emphasised that the mismatch between actual nutritional content and label information potentially violates Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning Consumer Protection. “Consumers have the right to obtain true, clear, and honest information regarding the condition and guarantees of the goods they consume. Furthermore, consumers are entitled to receive goods that match the quality, benefits, and claims promised by business actors,” Niti stated on Wednesday.

Furthermore, YLKI outlined several crucial points regarding this issue. If nutritional discrepancies are proven, it constitutes a violation of regulations regarding prohibited acts for business actors. Under Article 8, businesses are prohibited from producing or trading goods that do not conform to the descriptions, quality, composition, or other information stated on the product label.

YLKI has requested that the government, through relevant ministries and agencies, immediately establish complaint centres for aggrieved consumers. The government must also ensure mechanisms for dispute resolution and the restoration of consumer rights, including the provision of compensation if violations are proven to have occurred.

Business actors are required to take full responsibility for all information, claims, and promises made on packaging. They must be able to prove scientifically that the claimed nutritional content and benefits are indeed consistent with the condition of the products being marketed.

YLKI fully supports government measures to conduct comprehensive investigations and take firm action against violating businesses. “Consistent law enforcement is necessary to provide a deterrent effect, protect consumer rights, and maintain public trust in food products on the market,” Niti added.

Finally, YLKI is encouraging the strengthening of both pre-market and post-market surveillance of fortified food products. This includes periodic testing of nutritional content in the market to ensure the alignment between label claims and the actual condition of the products.