Consumer Council Tests 36 Sanitary Napkins: One Fails Standard, Over Half Lack Proper Labeling
AM730 · 9 SOURCESabout 22 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Consumer Council released test results on September 14 for 36 disposable winged sanitary napkin samples, revealing significant disparities in absorption performance where the fastest absorbed within 3 seconds while the slowest required 73 seconds—one product exceeding the mainland recommended standard of 60 seconds. More than half of the samples failed to properly label their main ingredients or surface materials in Chinese or English, raising concerns about consumer information accessibility. Chemical and microbial safety tests showed all samples passed relevant standards, though the Council has called on suppliers to strengthen quality management and improve labeling practices.
Key Points
- The 36 samples were purchased from personal care stores, supermarkets, and online platforms, categorized by length into four groups: 22-25cm, 26-29cm, 30-35cm, and 40-43cm, with prices ranging from HK$1.01 to HK$5.6 per piece
- 16 samples achieved top ratings by absorbing test fluid within 10 seconds; the worst performer (LadiM graphene sanitary napkin, 24.5cm) took 73 seconds—exceeding the 60-second limit specified in mainland standard GB/T 8939-2018—and received only 2 stars
- Chemical and microbial safety tests showed all samples passed pH (5.7-6.2), formaldehyde, fluorescent substance tests, and detected no Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or hemolytic streptococci
- Five samples had moisture content between 10.7% and 12.8%, above the 10% factory threshold, potentially compromising absorption and increasing microbial growth risk
- Three brands—Sofy, Kotex, and Whisper—received more top overall ratings than competitors, with none of their products exceeding the 10% moisture content threshold
Why It Matters
The test results highlight that inadequate absorption performance can directly impact user comfort and increase leak risk, while insufficient labeling prevents consumers from making informed choices about intimate care products—particularly concerning for those with sensitive skin or allergies . The Council has called on suppliers to strengthen quality management and improve labeling practices to align with mainland standards, while advising consumers to inspect packaging for damage and check expiration dates before purchase .
The test results highlight that inadequate absorption performance can directly impact user comfort and increase leak risk, while insufficient labeling prevents consumers from making informed choices about intimate care products—particularly concerning for those with sensitive skin or allergies . The Council has called on suppliers to strengthen quality management and improve labeling practices to align with mainland standards, while advising consumers to inspect packaging for damage and check expiration dates before purchase .