Consumer Commission probes sanitary pad brands over harmful chemicals
Jabulile Mbatha
24 February 2026 | 16:35The move comes after a report from the University of Free State, which found harmful elements in nine tested products.

This photograph taken on April 25, 2023 shows panty liners, hygienic tampons, and sanitary pads. Picture: Lou Benoist/AFP
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched an investigation into sanitary pads and panty liners that have been found to be harmful to users.
The move comes after a report from the University of Free State, which found harmful elements in nine tested products.
These include brands such as Kotex, Always, We-Flow, Stayfree, and Lil-Lets.
The report found that pads and panty liners from the brands contain a chemical that causes hormonal imbalances, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer.
"The investigation aims to review and assess the compliance of the suppliers with the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, particularly those that deal with the quality of goods that should be supplied to the market," said NCC Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu.
Get the whole picture 💡
Take a look at the topic timeline for all related articles.









