ZMA Seizes Underweight Bread from Yatu Bakery in Kalingalinga
The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has seized approximately 100 loaves of bread from Yatu Bakery in Kalingalinga after inspections revealed that the products were underweight.
According to a statement issued by ZMA Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms Sandra Mwila, the seizure followed intensified inspections of bakeries carried out in January as part of routine random checks under the Metrology Act. The inspections are aimed at protecting consumers and promoting fair trade practices.
Ms Mwila said that during an inspection conducted on January 8, 2026, ZMA inspectors examined two bread varieties produced by Yatu Bakery—Yatu Sliced Bread and Super Big Loaf. The loaves were labelled as weighing 800 grammes and 700 grammes respectively. However, verification tests showed that the actual weights were below the declared quantities, contrary to the requirements of the Metrology Act.
“As a result of this non-compliance, about 100 loaves of bread were seized and disposed of through the Magistrate Court in accordance with the law,” Ms Mwila said.
She urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of underweight or incorrectly measured products, assuring the public that the Agency remains available to investigate all such reports in order to safeguard consumer rights.
Ms Mwila further reminded all bakeries and traders to fully comply with the Metrology Act by ensuring that bread and other commodities are sold in accurate quantities as stated on their packaging.
The Agency has warned that it will not hesitate to take enforcement action against non-compliant businesses. Such measures may include the seizure of commodities, the imposition of fines or prosecution through the courts of law.
ZMA is a statutory body established under the Metrology Act No. 6 of 2017 and operates under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry. The Agency is responsible for the designation, maintenance and safeguarding of national measurement standards, as well as the certification and calibration of measuring instruments used in commercial transactions, law enforcement, health, safety, environmental management and compliance assurance for both locally produced and imported pre-packaged goods.
