Fiji Kava Industry Faces Crisis as Adulteration Concerns Rise
Suva, Fiji – – Concerns are mounting over the adulteration of kava in Fiji, threatening both consumer safety and the nation’s lucrative kava export market. Reports indicate that cooking products, including flour, are allegedly being mixed with kava, primarily intended for international sale, officials say.
The Ministry of Agriculture has warned that this practice jeopardizes Fiji’s reputation with overseas buyers and could have significant economic ramifications. The issue came to light following a complaint to the Consumer Council of Fiji from a small business owner on the island of Beqa. The vendor discovered that kava purchased from a dealer at the Suva Municipal Market was overly powdery and left a white sediment when mixed with water – a clear indication of tampering after it had already been sold to customers.
Upon investigation, the Consumer Council compared the suspect batch with other kava samples, noting distinct differences in color and aroma. According to Chief Executive Seema Shandil, authentic kava should exhibit a light brown hue. In contrast, the questionable product displayed a pale, grey appearance, accompanied by white powder and black specks. “These characteristics strongly indicate the possibility of contamination with other substances,” Shandil stated.
This isn’t an isolated incident. The Consumer Council has documented previous complaints, including reports from international buyers who have received kava with unusual appearance, odor, and taste. This pattern suggests a systemic problem within the kava supply chain, raising questions about quality control measures.
The adulteration issue is particularly concerning given the importance of kava to the Fijian economy. The country is a major exporter of the traditional drink, and maintaining its reputation for quality is crucial. Officials are now pushing for stricter quality controls and harsher penalties for those found to be tampering with the product.
Shandil supports the Ministry’s call for increased oversight by farmers, traders, and exporters. She emphasized the need for stronger enforcement as consultations continue on the proposed Kava Bill. The Consumer Council is advocating for the inclusion of significant fines and license blacklisting for individuals found guilty of adulterating kava.
The potential consequences of inaction are severe. Beyond the risk to consumers, a loss of confidence in Fijian kava could devastate the livelihoods of farmers and exporters who rely on the industry. Protecting the integrity of the kava supply chain is therefore paramount.
As the debate over the Kava Bill intensifies, stakeholders are hoping for swift and decisive action to address the growing threat of adulteration and safeguard Fiji’s prized crop. The future of the kava industry, and the economic well-being of many Fijians, may depend on it.
Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
