Cape Town – The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has officially launched an investigation into nine suppliers of sanitary pads and panty liners following findings from a study conducted by the University of the Free State.
In a media statement issued, the NCC said it had “noted the study conducted by the University of the Free State” titled “The presence of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in sanitary pads: A study done in South Africa.”
According to the commission, the study found that certain sanitary pads and panty liners “may contain harmful Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) such as parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols.”
“These EDCs are linked to health complications such as hormonal imbalance, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products monthly,” the NCC said in its statement.
Based on the findings, the commission confirmed it has initiated an investigation against the following suppliers whose products were reportedly tested in the study:
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Kimberly-Clark of SA (Pty) Ltd (Kotex)
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Procter & Gamble (Pty) Ltd (Always)
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Anna Organics
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The Lion Match Company (Pty) Ltd trading as Comfitex
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Here We Flo trading as Flo
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Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd trading as Stay Free
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Premier Group trading as Lil-lets
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Essity Hygiene and Health AB trading as Libresse South Africa
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My Time
The NCC is investigating nine suppliers of sanitary pads. Consumer safety is our priority.@PhethoN @the_dtic pic.twitter.com/HxPdFBcZYV
— The National Consumer Commission (NCC) (@TheNCC_RSA) February 24, 2026
The NCC stated that the investigation aims to review and assess the suppliers’ compliance with the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), particularly sections 55 and 24.
“The CPA states that consumers have the right to receive goods that are reasonably suitable for their intended purposes. Consumers also have the right to goods that are of good quality and in good working order. The goods must be free of defects and usable and durable for a reasonable time,” the commission said.
Simultaneously, the NCC will require the concerned suppliers to conduct tests on the affected products or provide the latest laboratory results that tested for EDCs, if any.
“Once the NCC receives the results, these will be assessed to determine whether product recall provisions in terms of section 60 of the CPA should be invoked,” the statement read.
Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said the findings of the study warranted urgent attention.
“The findings of the study raise serious concerns affecting women and girls that warrant an investigation, making this a priority investigation,” Ratshisusu said.
“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.”
The commission further indicated that it will engage with other stakeholders and regulatory authorities during the course of the investigation.
At this stage, no product recall has been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
