Zimbabwe’s Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has warned consumers about reports of used or recycled diapers and sanitary pads being repackaged and sold as new, raising concerns over product safety and the authenticity of hygiene products in the market.

In a public notice, the Commission said it had received “disturbing information about recycled diapers and sanitary pads being sold in the market to unsuspecting consumers.” The CPC warned that “their use poses a serious health risk to the end users” and urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing these products.

The Commission advised consumers to buy diapers and sanitary pads from reputable shops and trusted suppliers, and to check packaging and product details before purchasing. Parents and caregivers were specifically warned to avoid products of uncertain origin or quality.

“If a product appears suspicious, discontinue its use and retain the packaging, receipt and details of the seller to assist with reporting,” the Commission advised.

The CPC also reminded retailers and suppliers of their responsibility to ensure that products offered for sale are safe and meet acceptable quality standards.

Similar case exposed in China

The warning follows a case exposed in China in March 2025, when an investigation by China Central Television (CCTV) revealed the alleged resale of defective sanitary pads and baby diapers recovered from manufacturing waste.

According to the investigation, Liangshan Xixi Paper Products, based in Shandong province, allegedly purchased defective products and production waste from hygiene-product manufacturers, selected items that appeared relatively intact, and repackaged them for resale.

The investigation also reported that some remaining waste was processed into raw materials, including wood pulp and superabsorbent polymers, for resale to hygiene-product manufacturers.

The company reportedly purchased defective products and production waste for 260–1,400 yuan per tonne, then sold selected products, after sorting and repackaging, for 7,000–8,000 yuan per tonne.

Chinese industry standards require defective disposable hygiene products to be shredded before disposal, while the country’s national hygienic standard prohibits the use of discarded sanitary products as raw or semi-finished materials.

Following the broadcast, local authorities formed a joint investigation team involving market supervision, health and public security officials. On 17 March 2025, reports said the company had been shut down and responsible parties detained, while the investigation remained ongoing.

Several brands named in the broadcast denied having supplied or authorized the company. The case highlighted the risk of defective products and manufacturing waste re-entering the market when disposal controls fail.

Although the Zimbabwe warning and the Chinese case concern different circumstances, both highlight the importance of product traceability, secure supply chains and effective controls over the handling and disposal of used or defective hygiene products.