The importance of expiry labels on MSME products: Ensuring consumer safety and legal compliance
Case of Toko Mama Khas Banjar
The criminal prosecution of the owner of Toko Mama Khas Banjar for failing to include labels and expiration dates on their products has drawn public attention. Evita Nursanty, Deputy Chairperson of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), expressed concern over the legal approach that immediately criminalizes MSME actors without prior guidance. She believes such actions can dampen the spirit of small and medium entrepreneurs, who are the main pillars of the national economy.
Why are expiry labels important?
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Ensuring consumer safety
Expiration date labels provide essential information to consumers about the safe time frame to consume products. Without this information, consumers risk consuming products that are no longer suitable, which can endanger health.
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Building consumer trust
Including complete and clear information on product packaging demonstrates the professionalism and responsibility of producers. This can enhance consumer trust in MSME products, which in turn can increase customer loyalty.
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Meeting legal requirements
In Indonesia, the inclusion of labels and expiration dates on food and beverage products is regulated by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) Regulation No. 31 of 2018 concerning Processed Food Labels. Violations of these provisions can result in administrative sanctions up to criminal penalties.
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Supporting stock and distribution management
Expiration date information helps business actors manage inventory and product distribution efficiently, thereby reducing the risk of losses due to unsold products that have passed their shelf life.
A wise legal approach
Evita Nursanty emphasized the importance of a restorative justice approach in handling administrative violations by MSMEs. She believes the state should be present to guide and protect small business actors so they can grow and develop in accordance with applicable regulations. Law enforcement should still be carried out, but with an approach that prioritizes education and guidance, rather than immediately criminalizing business actors.
Recommendations for MSMEs
- Education and training: The government and related institutions need to organize education and training programs for MSMEs on the importance of labels, including how to include expiration dates in accordance with regulations.
- Facilitating access to technology: Providing access to affordable and easy-to-use label printing technology for MSMEs can help business actors meet labeling requirements more easily.
- Persuasive approach: In enforcing regulations, a persuasive and educational approach is more effective than a repressive one. Giving warnings and opportunities to correct mistakes before imposing sanctions can encourage compliance without burdening MSME actors.
Conclusion
Including labels and expiration dates on MSME products is a crucial step to ensure consumer safety, build trust, and meet legal requirements. However, in enforcing regulations, an educational and supportive approach is more effective in encouraging compliance among MSME actors without hindering their business growth. With proper support and guidance, MSMEs can develop and contribute more significantly to the national economy.
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Footnotes:
- Evita Nursanty Menyoroti Pemidanaan UMKM Gara-Gara Label Produk. RRI, May 9, 2025. https://rri.co.id/nasional/1498182/evita-nursanty-menyoroti-pemidanaan-umkm-gara-gara-label-produk
