False Claims About Milk Powder Price Reduction from Midnight on September 25

Milk powder is a staple consumer product in Sri Lanka, and its price fluctuations often spark widespread discussions, especially on social media. However, some of these online posts can be misleading, spreading misinformation about the reasons behind price changes, availability, or government policies. These misleading claims can create confusion among consumers, fueling unnecessary concerns about shortages or price hikes. Accurate information from reliable sources is crucial to help people understand the real factors influencing milk powder prices, such as global market trends, import costs, and local economic conditions.

Social Media Posts

Recently, claims have been circulating on social media, suggesting that the price of milk powder will be reduced starting from midnight today, September 25. We conducted an investigation to verify the authenticity of these claims, and here are the facts.

FB | Archived

We decided to do a fact-check on this.

Fact Check

No Mainstream Media Reports

Firstly, we found no reports from any credible mainstream media outlets regarding a price reduction for milk powder from today. If such a significant price change were to happen, it would likely be covered by major news sources. This absence of coverage is a key indicator that the claim lacks credibility.

Responses from Milk Powder Companies

To further verify, we contacted key representatives from major milk powder suppliers in Sri Lanka:

Fonterra: According to the marketing division of Fonterra, which supplies popular milk brands such as Anchor, the news of a price reduction is false. The company confirmed that there are no immediate plans to reduce the price of their milk powder products.

Maliban: Asoka Bandara, Group Head of Corporate Affairs & Strategy at Maliban Group of Companies, also refuted the claim. He stated that no such discussions have taken place regarding a price reduction. He noted, however, that there could potentially be discussions in the coming days, but nothing is confirmed as of now.

Nestlé Lanka: Damitha Kulathunga, the Corporate Public Affairs Manager of Nestlé Lanka, clarified that although Nestlé does not process full-cream milk powder products, the prices of its other related products, such as Nestomalt, will not be reduced.

Meanwhile, Asela Bandara, the consumer affairs authority's communication director, confirmed that there will be no such price reduction from midnight today.

Recent Price Reduction for Locally Produced Milk Powder

It is important to note that on September 10, 2024, there was a reduction in the price of Milko, a locally produced milk powder. A report can be read here .Archived In that day Hiru news published a post in their social media channels and it is being shared now out of context.

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Conclusion

Based on the lack of mainstream media reports and direct statements from key milk powder suppliers in Sri Lanka, we can confirm that the claim about a reduction in the price of milk powder from midnight on September 25 is false. While there was a recent price reduction for locally produced Milko milk powder, no other major brands, including Anchor, Maliban, or Nestlé, are reducing their prices at this time.