Prepackaging (market surveillance)

The Hessian Directorate of Weights and Measures monitors that so-called "prepackages" are correctly placed on the market by the manufacturers, in particular whether they contain the specified net weight. Pre-packaging is, for example, all food, cleaning agents and cosmetics that are sold in tightly closed packaging and whose contents cannot be checked by the consumer himself before purchasing.

If it is found that the information is incorrect, the manufacturer may be obliged to take back the batch complained of. If the nominal quantity is not reached, all packages must be reweighed or destroyed. If necessary, the manufacturer or importer must pay a fine.
 

The Hessian Weights and Measures Directorate is responsible for the whole of Hesse. If necessary, reference will be made to the branch offices in Fulda, Giessen, Kassel, Maintal, Wiesbaden

If false information on prepackages is suspected, the most accurate information possible about the product (manufacturer, product name, etc.) is required. A sample or image, as well as an indication of where the product was purchased, are helpful.

The product should still be available.

There are no costs for the end user, unless he explicitly commissions a check himself

The weight of many products decreases sharply over time, e.g. due to dehydration. However, only the time of manufacture (packaging) is decisive. In addition, individual packages may weigh less than stated within certain limits, only the average value during production may not be lower than the indicated.

Dehydration and deviations in individual products often lead to complaints by end consumers, but are not legally objectionable.

"Deceptive packaging" is also monitored. In particular, it can be objected to here if there is suddenly less content in the same packaging than before.