A joint operation by the Consumer Affairs Authority and the Department of Animal Production and Health has resulted in the destruction of more than a tonne of substandard animal medicines valued at approximately Rs. 3 million.
Regulatory authorities have destroyed a significant cache of unregistered and substandard animal medicines following a coordinated raid on August 9. The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) and the Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) seized 1,090 kilogrammes of illicit veterinary products during the operation, which were subsequently incinerated at the Kerawalapitiya clinical waste disposal facility.
The seized medicines had not undergone the necessary registration process with the DAPH and failed to meet established quality standards, constituting a violation of Section 17 of the Animal Diseases Act. Following the raid, the manufacturer was questioned and subsequently admitted to illegally manufacturing and distributing the medicines, providing an affidavit that acknowledged the offence. The manufacturer bore all costs associated with the destruction of the stockpile.
Authorities emphasised that the circulation of substandard animal medicines presents a multifaceted public health concern. Beyond posing direct threats to animal health and welfare, these products create indirect risks for consumers of animal-derived foods including meat, milk, and eggs. The CAA has advised the public to verify that all animal medicines, vitamins, and feed purchases carry proper DAPH registration and display accurate manufacturing and expiry dates. Officials recommended consumers purchase only products that meet required standards and carry appropriate labelling.
