NAFDAC has raised alarms over the quality of bread in Nigerian markets, revealing that some producers are using saccharine instead of sugar, posing health risks. The agency also warned other manufacturers about selling substandard products and emphasized strict enforcement of safety regulations to protect consumers' health.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has expressed deep concerns regarding the quality of bread sold in Nigerian markets, revealing that several products have not met laboratory standards. NAFDAC discovered that some producers are substituting sugar with saccharine, an artificial sweetener, due to the rising cost of sugar. This practice, according to NAFDAC, could pose potential health risks to consumers.
During a stakeholders' meeting in Ibadan, NAFDAC Southwest Coordinator, Mrs. Roseline Ajayi, reaffirmed the agency's commitment to upholding high safety standards despite economic challenges. She cautioned that the use of unapproved additives like saccharine compromises the quality and safety of bread, which could have adverse effects on public health.
NAFDAC also issued warnings to water producers, patent medicine sellers, and other manufacturers about the dangers of distributing substandard or counterfeit products. Recent inspections revealed that some patent medicine dealers were selling restricted drugs and unregistered items, while certain manufacturers were not adhering to proper packaging and storage guidelines.
Ajayi emphasized the need for increased cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure that the health and safety of consumers remain a priority. She stressed that NAFDAC will continue to enforce its regulations rigorously, regardless of economic pressures, to protect public health.
The meeting featured discussions on other regulatory measures introduced over the past year to improve practices within the industry. Stakeholders, including Oyo State Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Mr. Moses Adewole, urged medicine sellers to operate within their areas of expertise and avoid selling expired medications.
The gathering brought together a variety of participants, such as bakers, chemical dealers, agro-input suppliers, and manufacturers, all of whom were reminded of their critical role in maintaining the quality and safety of the products they offer to the public.
