NAFDAC Says Unbranded Palm Oil, Fufu Outside Direct Oversight
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has said it does not have direct and absolute regulatory oversight over unbranded palm oil, fufu and other traditionally packaged staple foods sold in open markets.
NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the agency’s efforts to tackle suspected counterfeit, adulterated and unsafe products in circulation across the country.
Adeyeye said the agency received 225 complaints about suspected counterfeit products in August, noting that NAFDAC receives more than 200 complaints from Nigerians every month through its various reporting channels. She urged Nigerians to report suspected counterfeiters through official complaint channels rather than relying solely on social media.
The NAFDAC boss expressed concern over reports of palm oil being adulterated with azo dyes and other hazardous substances, as well as the use of bleach and other harmful chemicals in the production of fufu and other staple foods. She said NAFDAC’s mandate primarily covers processed and packaged foods, while urging state and local authorities to strengthen monitoring of traditionally packaged food products sold in open markets.
Adeyeye also cautioned against relying on social media allegations to determine whether a product is counterfeit or unsafe, stressing that scientific testing and regulatory investigation are necessary. She said NAFDAC could seize, recall or dispose of affected products and take enforcement action where violations are established.
She further clarified that some imported agricultural produce, including apples, grapes and oranges, falls under the regulatory responsibility of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS). Adeyeye called for stronger collaboration among relevant agencies to ensure effective food safety regulation across the country.