Schweppes Zimbabwe has apologized to its customers for reducing the sugar level in Mazoe without measuring the passion that people have for the original drink, saying their intention was not to disappoint them.
Addressing the media in the capital today, the group Managing Director, Charles Msipa said consumer research only revealed the extent of consumer preference for less sugar variant adding that the original Mazoe will be back on shelves by end of July.
“The extensive consumer research only revealed the extent of consumer preference for less sugar variant but obviously did not measure the passion that people of Zimbabwe have for the original Mazoe. The people have spoken ,they want original Mazoe and they want it soon,” he said.
He added that the original Mazoe will be in shops by end of July whereby they are allowing time for label preparation and printing for the distinct Original and reduced sugar Mazoe.
“The feedback that we received from many consumers were humbling with hashtag such as #BringOurMazoe,#Dzosai Mazoe among others that were on the internet.
“We want consumers to know that we ‘re sorry for any discontent that we have caused, our intention was not to disappoint them.
“We expect the original Mazoe to be in shops by end of July allowing time for label preparation and printing for the distinct Original and reduced sugar Mazoe,” added Msipa.
Meanwhile Msipa has assured the country that their sweeteners are safe saying they are thoroughly researched ingredients with scientific studies.
“Let me take this opportunity to allay fears that were raised about the new sweeteners, the sweeteners we use are some of the most thoroughly researched ingredients in the world with scientific studies consistently confirming their use and safety.
“We only use low and no calorie sweeteners that have been thoroughly tested in scientific studies and are safe including for children and adults,and approved for use by national and globally recognised authorities including the Ministry of Health,FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives US Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority,” said Msipa.
