BPOM dismisses mercury allegations against Ratansha, reinforces product safety standards

The Indonesian Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has firmly denied recent social media claims alleging that Ratansha Purnama Abadi's skincare factory was shut down and taken to court for using hazardous substances such as mercury. The agency clarified that these accusations are false and could mislead the public while harming compliant businesses.

BPOM head Taruna Ikrar (pictured) reiterated the institution's commitment to rigorous oversight of all cosmetic products circulating in the market. "We urge the public not to spread unverified information that could harm manufacturers that have complied with regulations and obtained official distribution permits," he said in a release.

The agency emphasised that its evaluation processes are stringent, ensuring that only products meeting safety and quality standards receive approval. Addressing the rumours, BPOM categorically stated that the claim suggesting Ratansha's factory had been taken to court twice and failed to defend itself was entirely untrue.

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"The factory in question is not identified as a mercury supplier," Ikrar explained. He further warned that baseless allegations not only damage a company's reputation but can also disrupt business operations and consumer trust.

"Let us be clear—reports circulating on social media about the closure of a cosmetic factory due to the discovery of hazardous ingredients are incorrect," he added.

Beyond reputational harm, misinformation of this scale can have broader economic consequences, potentially straining partnerships and jeopardising jobs in the cosmetics industry. BPOM expressed deep concern over the rising trend of hoaxes, which could create unnecessary panic and erode trust in legally compliant businesses.

To combat misinformation, BPOM encourages consumers to verify product legitimacy through the BPOM mobile app or the agency's official website.

Ikrar reaffirmed BPOM's commitment to consumer protection, stating, "BPOM will continue safeguarding public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of cosmetic products while fostering a fair and healthy business environment for compliant manufacturers."

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