Underwear, Illicit Alcohol Risk



Hatyoka says banned textiles and unregulated spirits threaten consumer safety and urges consumers to buy from trusted sources

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 — (16-03-2026) — The Zambia CompulsoryStandardsAgency (ZCSA) has warned that used undergarments, including bras, underwear, camisoles, pyjamas and nightgowns, along with unregistered and illicit alcoholic beverages, pose serious health risks.

Speaking in Kabwe during a roadshow at Mukuyu Tree (Green Market), Brian Hatyoka ZCSA Manager for Communications and Public Relations said these banned textiles and unregulated spirits can cause infections, organ damage, poisoning, and even death, urging consumers to buy only from trusted sources.


“Used textile products worn close to the skin may cause skin rashes, fungal infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Consumers must buy new underwear to protect their health,” Mr. Hatyoka said.

The importation and sale of such garments is prohibited under Statutory Instrument No. 120 of 2006, which made the national standard for used textile products compulsory.


Mr. Hatyoka also warned that illicit alcoholic beverages, which often exceed safe alcohol content levels of 34 to 55 percent, can damage vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, and eyes.

He cited incidents in last year where suspected illicit beer allegedly made from methylated spirit, fertiliser, and tyre mending solution caused fatalities.

The ZCSA official urged consumers to purchase alcoholic beverages only from trusted, regulated suppliers. Manufacturers, importers, and suppliers must obtain approval from ZCSA before placing products on the market.

Mr. Hatyoka highlighted that ZCSA carries out factory inspections and market surveillance to ensure compliance.

During the fourth quarter of 2025, non-compliant products worth K38,149 were withdrawn from , the highest in the country, due to expiry, poor labelling, or lack of registration.

He appealed to producers, importers, and suppliers to formalise businesses, register with ZCSA, and follow good manufacturing practices to ensure product safety and access to local and international markets.

He also advised consumers to read product labels carefully to check for ingredients, manufacturer details, batch numbers, expiry dates, storage instructions, and directions for use. Labels must be in English, though other languages may be added additionally.

“Engaging ZCSA early helps businesses comply with standards, improve product safety, and expand market access,” Mr. Hatyoka said.

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