In early June, information about the authorities discovering a series of batches of fake and famous branded milk in some northern provinces has worried many customers in Son La.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Lanh, To Hieu Ward (Quyet Thang Ward, old Son La City) shared: I have to carefully check the label and ask for the origin before buying milk for my child. After the case of fake milk was discovered, I only dare to buy milk at large stores with clear invoices".
This cautious mentality has caused the milk market in Son La to stagnate at times, with purchasing power decreasing slightly. However, this is also an opportunity for reputable businesses to affirm their brands and transparency in distribution.
At Vu Tue Dan milk diaper store, To Hieu ward, the number of customers remains stable thanks to a clear product traceability policy. Ms. Vu Tue Dan, the store owner, said: " 100% of the milk at the store has invoices and lines from genuine distributors such as Vinamilk, Abbott, Nutifood... Customers can scan the QR code to check on the official application". In addition, the store has increased direct consultation, instructing parents on how to identify real and fake milk; check the expiration date, cans, and origin of the product.
"We commit to refunding if the product does not meet requirements or the goods are found to be defective," Ms. Tue Dan affirmed.
Not only stopping at buying and selling, many parents today proactively seek advice from consulting firms to receive instructions on how to use milk properly, especially for infants and children with digestive problems.
At Beemec Son La Breast milk Consulting Center, the number of calls and direct consultations has increased by more than 30% compared to before.
Doctor Hoang Thi Quyen (counselor at the center) commented: "Parents are now more cautious and proactive. Many people not only ask about the right type of milk, but are also interested in how to use milk safely, in combination with nutrition, especially for children under 2 years old".
The center currently provides free on-site and online consultation on the choice of milk suitable for children's age, physical condition, and allergy history to all people.
Faced with the market situation of many uncertainties, interdisciplinary inspection teams and the Market Management Department of Son La province have stepped up comprehensive inspections of establishments selling milk, diapers, and baby items in the area.
The leader of the Market Management Department of Son La province said: "From the beginning of June until now, we have inspected nearly 50 establishments and discovered 3 cases of administrative violations such as trading in expired products and unknown origins. However, no fake milk has been discovered in the province.
The Head of the Department emphasized: The Department will continue to conduct periodic inspections, combined with surprise inspections, especially in densely populated areas and areas with high demand for baby milk. At the same time, coordinate with manufacturers and agents to quickly track down signs of violations".
The situation of the milk market in Son La is now stable, milk purchases at stores have begun to increase again. Consumers are gradually feeling more secure as businesses commit to traceability and authorities strengthen supervision and inspection.
