Beans With Insects Blocked from Entering South Sudan

(NIMULE) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has announced that it rejected and re-exported several consignments of food products at the Nimule border in Eastern Equatoria State after they failed to meet required quality and safety standards.

According to officials, the inspections were part of the bureau’s routine checks carried out daily at all designated entry points into the country. The bureau said the action was taken to protect public health and ensure that only safe and quality goods reach consumers in South Sudan.

During the recent checks, two trucks loaded with maize flour and maize grains were ordered to return to their country of origin. Laboratory tests confirmed that the maize contained aflatoxin levels higher than the permissible limits for human consumption. Aflatoxin contamination is a common food safety risk in the region and can lead to serious health complications, including liver damage and cancer.

In a separate case, another truck carrying beans was rejected after inspectors found a live insect infestation. Authorities said the infestation rendered the beans unsafe for both trade and consumption.

The SSNBS said such actions underline its ongoing commitment to safeguarding consumers, promoting fair trade, and ensuring that unsafe goods do not enter South Sudanese markets. Officials added that inspections will remain strict in order to prevent substandard products from reaching the public.

The bureau also reminded traders and importers of the importance of complying with both national and international quality standards before attempting to bring goods into South Sudan. Non-compliance, they warned, leads not only to financial losses from rejected consignments but also disrupts the supply of essential goods in the local markets.

The Nimule crossing is a key route for food imports from neighbouring countries. The latest enforcement measures by SSNBS are therefore expected to strengthen consumer protection and encourage suppliers to ensure better handling and storage of food products before export.

A summary of the recent rejected consignments: