A cosmetic product has been found to contain microbial contaminants that are beyond safe for use, said the Ministry of Health (MoH) in a statement yesterday.
The ministry said the Laboratory of Microbiology Section of the Department of Scientific Services tested Bali Boat After Sun Gel by Herborist and found that the product contained aerobic bacteria, yeast and moulds exceeding the recommended safety limit.
“The presence of microbial contamination in cosmetic products can potentially increase the risk of microbial infection and lead to adverse effects in consumers,” it said.
In light of the findings, “the affected item – Herborist Bali Boat After Sun Gel of batch number M0208A1 – is no longer allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam” and the company bringing in the items “duly informed and instructed to recall the affected products from the market”.
The ministry also urged members of the public who have purchased the product to seize usage immediately, and those experiencing undesirable reactions to seek medical attention.
Retailers of the product are reminded that it is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007, and the penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction is a fine not exceeding BND5,000, imprisonment not exceeding two years, or both.
The MoH called for public cooperation to report to the Cosmetic Unit, Product Regulation Section if the affected product is still found in the market by calling 2393298 (ext 225) or Darussalam hotline at 123, or emailing to cosmetic@moh.gov.bn.
