Iodization of salt (Specification) Order, 1998.

The Iodization of Salt (Specification) Order, 1998, issued under Malawi’s Iodization of Salt Act, 1995, establishes mandatory standards for the iodization, packaging, labelling, handling, and sale of salt intended for human or animal consumption. It requires that all salt be iodized prior to distribution or use, with specific iodine levels depending on the point in the supply chain. At ports of entry, iodization plants, and prepacking factories, salt must contain between 80 and 100 milligrams of potassium iodate per kilogram, while at wholesale and retail levels, a minimum of 50 milligrams is required. Labelling must be clear and permanent, including details such as the manufacturer, iodization plant, iodine compound and concentration, expiry date, and storage instructions. All iodized salt must display the certification mark of the Malawi Bureau of Standards. Sellers and distributors are legally deemed to warrant that the salt meets all regulatory and label specifications. Packaging must be moisture-proof and sealed. During transport, storage, and display, iodized salt must be protected from sunlight, excessive heat and humidity, contamination, mixing with non-iodized salt, poor ventilation, prolonged storage, and improper stacking. Distribution must follow a first-in, first-out system. Consumers are entitled to pursue legal action if they receive non-compliant salt.