Panama City, Panama. - The Authority for Consumer Protection and Competition Defense (Acodeco) reported that the sale of expired products remains the most recurrent irregularity detected in businesses nationwide. According to the institution's records, during 2025, inspection operations led to the seizure of 182,726 expired items, an increase of 19,743 products compared to the 162,983 removed in 2024. The institution detailed that among the confiscated merchandise are food, medicines, and various hygiene products, which, when expired, pose a direct risk to consumers' health. Acodeco expressed its concern over the persistence of these commercial practices, despite seizures, the destruction of the goods, and the application of corresponding sanctions. To report these anomalies, consumers have Sindi available via WhatsApp and Telegram at 6330-3333, official social media on Facebook and X under the account @AcodecoPma, and the institutional web portal. In addition to the sale of expired products, the authority identified other common irregularities during its inspections, such as: products lacking a visible expiration date; illegible dates or the presence of double price marking; foods detected in evident poor condition; absence of prices visible to the consumer. The entity emphasized that verifying information on the labeling is an indispensable measure for citizens. In cases where the date is not visible, has erasures, or has superimposed labels, it is recommended to refrain from purchasing. It was clarified that this obligation is not limited to food and medicines but extends to products with chemical components such as cosmetics, paints, and household cleaning items, including detergents, chlorine, and toothpaste. Acodeco suggested that the population maintain a vigilant attitude, especially before promotional offers like '2x1,' which could sometimes be used to move merchandise close to its expiration date. The expiration date, which must appear obligatorily on the packaging, is the fundamental factor to guarantee the quality and freshness of the goods acquired.
