“Buy only perfumed soap,” they say. While it may sound appealing, it seems that the country’s demand for soap is around 100 kg, while perfumeries can only provide a maximum of 70 kg,” stated Babken Pipyoyan, head of the NGO “Irrigated and Protected Consumer,” in response to the SATM order. Pipyoyan contemplates whether it is necessary to investigate the actual demand and find measures to meet the unfulfilled demand for soap, ensuring the sustainability of perfumeries and access to soap for the people. Pipyoyan emphasizes the importance of understanding the differing needs and suggests the creation of an organization to prevent the closure of perfumeries resulting from inactivity.

In addition to this, SATM recently announced the suspension of soap production at a perfume factory in Lori. Observers from the Shirak Regional Center for Food Safety stated that the factory was operating in violation of sanitary hygiene regulations in Gyulagarak village, Lori region. The observer body resumed monitoring soap production and hygiene standards on December 15, focusing on general food points and production.

According to sanitary-therapeutic norm 5, soap must meet specific microbiological quality standards, be standardized and labelled correctly, and sterile soaps should be used for production and washing-cleaning. The alignment of the microbiological and soap standards is crucial to ensure proper hygiene and quality. These measures are necessary for maintaining public health and safety.

In conclusion, it is essential to address the demand for soap in Armenia and find ways to support perfumeries, meet consumer needs, and adhere to proper hygiene standards. The action taken by SATM to suspend soap production highlights the importance of maintaining an accountable and regulated industry to prioritize public health concerns.