Food products can be returned: The Cabinet has approved a new procedure.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a new procedure for the return or exchange of unsuitable and hazardous food products. Buyers will be able to return such items to the seller within 1 to 14 days, depending on the type of product. This is confirmed by resolution No. 1347 dated November 26, 2024.

Conditions for Return or Exchange

According to the document, consumers can contact the seller verbally or in writing with one of the following requests:

• Replacement of the product with a safe equivalent.
• Refund of the paid amount.

Timeframes for Submitting Claims

• Products requiring storage at a temperature of up to +6°C – returns are possible within one day of purchase.
• Products with a limited consumption period or a minimum shelf life of up to 14 days – no later than three calendar days.
• Products with a shelf life of more than 14 days – returns are allowed within 14 days.

For products purchased remotely (in online stores), the return period begins from the moment the buyer actually receives the item.

Return Procedure

The buyer must provide:

• A proof of purchase (receipt, invoice, etc.).
• The unsuitable or hazardous product.

Refunds will be processed on the day of the request.

Special Cases

If the buyer has purchased a product that is past its expiration date due to the seller's fault or their own negligence, the enterprise is obligated to refund the money regardless of the conditions and timeframes.

Effective Date

The new procedure will come into effect simultaneously with the updated version of the "Consumer Rights Protection" law, which will take effect after the lifting of martial law.