SON debunks claims of fake Amstel Malta

The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has debunked the claims of a fake Amstel Malta in circulation.

Fred Akingbesote, deputy director, who represented the director-general of the organisation, explained to journalists in Lagos at the weekend, that Nigerian Breweries have met all SON safety and quality requirements and have complied with all requirements of the new National Industrial Standard (NIS) logo.

In August 2016, Amstel Malta, the premium, low sugar formulated malt drink from the stable of Nigerian Breweries, launched a new credential campaign ‘WhyAddMore’.Shortly after the campaign, a picture went viral that a fake version of the Amstel Malta was is in circulation. This was because the new packaging wore the new NIS logo, while the old packaging had the old NIS logo of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria.

Akingbesote confirmed that the NIS logo on Amstel Malta is the highest mark of quality from SON and commended the management of Nigerian Breweries for its commitment to the highest quality standard. He stated that Nigerian Breweries is one of the first companies to adopt the new NIS logo which was launched in September 2015.

Kufre Ekanem, NB Plc Corporate Affairs Adviser, explained that the Amstel Malta was one of the first brands to comply with SON directives. He added that the brand revised its packaging in line with the guidelines and approval of National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC and in compliance with the new mandatory NIS quality logo from the SON

“In the normal course of product and packaging renovation, old packaging and the new introduction co-exist in the market until the old one dries out. In view of the 12-month shelf life, we currently have Amstel Malta with both the old and new packaging in some parts of the market,” Ekanem said.

Ajayi Fayokemi