The Metric System is a measurement system which uses Standard International (SI) Units. It is simple to learn and easy to use because of its decimal nature. Let’s look at the metric units used for measuring mass commonly referred to as weight by consumers.

The metric base unit for measuring mass is the Kilogramme. When the Kilogramme is divided by 1000 the result is 1 gramme and when the Kilogramme is multiplied by 1000 the result is 1 metric tonne. (Note the difference in spelling for tonne)

The units of Mass (Weight)

For everyday transactions especially in the conduct of commerce, there are four commonly used units namely the milligramme, gramme, kilogramme and tonne.

Milligramme (mg) - This unit is used for measuring very small amounts of substances for example, ingredients in medicines or drugs and some ingredients in recipes. It is the equivalent of 1 gramme divided by 1000.

Gram (g) - The gramme is used for measuring intermediate amounts. For example, 100 grammes of butter, 250 grammes of cheese, 500 grammes of peas, etc.

28.35 grammes is equivalent to 1 ounce
½ kilogramme or 500 grammes is equivalent to 1 pound 1 ½ ounces.
Kilogramme (kg) - The Kilogramme is used for measuring larger amounts. For example, 1 kilogramme of potatoes, 10 kilogramme of bananas, 25 kilogramme of rice, etc.

One kilogramme equals two pounds three ounces.
Tonne (t) - This unit is used for measuring very large amounts, for example, one (1) truckload of sand or stone.

Remember! 1000 milligrammes (mg) equal 1 gramme (g)
1000 grammes (g) equal 1 kilogramme (kg)
1000 kilogrammes (kg) equal one tonne (t)

Consumers, you are urged to start requesting solid goods such as rice, peas, onions and potatoes from shops and markets in grammes and kilogrammes. These units should also be used to weigh solid hardware items such as nails, putty and glues that are sold by weight. These goods can be easily and accurately weighed on verified metric devices used in the market place.

Wholesalers and retailers have a significant role to play by packaging and selling their solid goods in metric quantities. Advertise your goods and prepare and display your price lists in metric quantities.

For further information please contact the GNBS on Tel: 219-0062, 219-0065, 219-0066, 219-0069