PIL against Hindustan Unilever, P&G, Colgate and Johnson & Johnson for use of ‘improper sealing methods’

MUMBAI: The packaging seal used by four multinational companies has come under the spotlight after a public interest litigation (PIL) filed in the Bombay High Court highlighted the use of improper sealing methods, which could be potentially hazardous for consumers.

Activist-lawyer Geetanjali Tapan Dutta, in her petition, named consumer giants Hindustan Unilever, Procter & Gamble, Colgate Palmolive (India) and Johnson & Johnson, claiming that due to improper sealing of their personal care, hygiene and cosmetic products, there’s a risk of contamination, especially during transit.

When contacted, a P&G (India) spokesperson refused to give any details, saying, “We are unable to comment as the matter is sub judice.” Email queries and phone calls to the other three firms remained unanswered.

“I have seen many times when shop owners or walk-in customers casually pick up products like deodrants and perfumes from the shelves and put them back again,” said Dutta, when contacted. “So, the consumer actually gets less of the product that they have paid for. Also, there are chances of contamination which can be dangerous,” she explained.

Dutta, however, refused to elaborate on other details, the matter being sub judice. “Due to non-sealing of personal hygiene and other cosmetic products, there’s a risk of contamination of the products during transit till they reach the consumer,” said the petition, a copy of which was reviewed by ET.