Trading Standards warning over counterfeit cigarettes and alcohol

Trading Standards are warning consumers in Neath Port Talbot to be aware of purchasing cheap alcohol and cigarettes which may be counterfeit.
The department has received reports of chest complaints and visits to the doctor from smokers who have purchased cigarettes that are often around half the price of authentic brands, bought within the County Borough.

Although consumers may believe they are getting a bargain, there are no controls or quality checks on counterfeit products. Very often they are made in secret factories, both here and abroad, from ingredients that have not been tested, or are not safe for human consumption. Consumers of these products will be taking a chance with their health and the health of those around them.

Council Leader, Ali Thomas OBE said:

“The Department carries out a great deal of work in relation to public health and safety from underage sales, to smoking in work and smoking cessation. The sale and consumption of counterfeit cigarettes or counterfeit alcohol can have significant health implications for smokers and drinkers”.

Steve Adie added:

“Sellers are not likely to be concerned who they sell to and this raises the possibility that they will sell such products to children. Counterfeit alcohol particularly has been found to cause blindness and in some cases death”.

“Our message is simple, you don’t know what’s in them so please don’t buy them. You could be putting your life at greater risk.”

Consumers who have information or suspect the sale of counterfeit products should ring the Citizens Advice Consumer Service Line: 03454 04 05 06