Beijing, China – Major sanitary pad manufacturers in China are facing backlash and issuing apologies following accusations of selling pads that are shorter than advertised. The controversy erupted after viral social media videos showed Chinese women measuring the lengths of popular brands of sanitary pads, revealing discrepancies between the actual size and what was stated on the packaging. This has sparked outrage and broader concerns about women being misled by feminine hygiene products in the country, which has a history of safety scandals in the industry.
Chinese women have taken matters into their own hands by exposing quality issues in sanitary pads, the most commonly used feminine hygiene product in China. Videos posted on social media platforms have shown consumers using measuring tapes to demonstrate that numerous brands of sanitary pads fall significantly short of the length indicated on their packaging. This has led to widespread criticism of manufacturers for deceptive practices.
An investigation conducted by Chinese news outlet The Paper discovered that nearly 90% of the sanitary pads tested were found to be shorter than advertised, with some measuring at least 10mm less than claimed. The absorbent layers within the pads were also revealed to be shorter than expected, failing to effectively manage menstrual flow. While national standards specify that sanitary pads can have a 4% margin of error in length, there is no requirement for the length of the absorbent layer.
In response to the public outcry, authorities have announced plans to revise the national standards for sanitary pads. Popular Chinese brands like ABC have come under fire for their inadequate customer service responses to complaints about the discrepancy in pad lengths. ABC issued a statement expressing deep regret for their inappropriate handling of the situation and pledged to improve their products to ensure accurate sizing.
Other companies, including Shecare and Beishute, have also issued apologies for the substandard quality of their sanitary pads. State media in China has joined the conversation by condemning manufacturers for compromising on quality. The issue highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and comfort of women who rely on these products on a daily basis.
The controversy surrounding sanitary pads in China underscores the broader concerns felt by women regarding the quality of products designed for them. The hashtag “Sanitary pads yield a centimetre; women yield for a lifetime” has gained traction on social media, reflecting the frustration and disappointment of female consumers. As authorities work to address the discrepancies in sanitary pad sizes and uphold higher standards in the industry, the issue serves as a reminder of the significance of prioritizing women’s health and well-being in the production of feminine hygiene products.