The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned food vendors against the adulteration of goods and produce, stressing that those involved in food adulteration and the forced ripening of fruit in markets will soon face sanctions.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr Olatunji Bello, issued the warning during a one-day awareness campaign on forced ripening of fruits, adulteration of palm oil, contaminated meat and grains, for market women and other stakeholders, held in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.
Bello stressed that any food seller/vendor who prioritises profit over the safety of Nigerians will face the wrath of the law.
Represented by Dr Nkechi Mba, the Director of Quality Assurance and Development in the Commission, Bello explained that FCCPC, being the apex consumer protection commission with a mandate to protect consumer interest in the country, would continue to ensure fair market practices and prevent endangering of consumers in all sectors of the economy.
Bello added that food adulteration and the forced ripening of fruits in markets are dangerous to health and urged vendors to desist from such acts.
His words, “Across the country and around the world, there is a need for strict adherence to food regulations as a matter of urgent public interest. Food safety is everyone’s responsibility, and FCCPC remains firmly committed to working with all stakeholders to build a marketplace that is fair, transparent and safe for consumers.
“Unsafe food not only endangers lives, but also undermines trust in markets, disrupts trade and damages the reputation of large and small businesses,” he said.
“Upholding food safety and quality is not only a legal obligation but a moral duty,” Bello said.
He revealed that the sensitisation campaign is part of the commission’s strategy to educate Nigerians on how to recognise adulterated or contaminated food, the dangers of consuming chemically ripened fruits, and the avenues for lodging complaints and seeking redress.
He added that the sensitisation exercise provided a platform to inform, educate, and empower both consumers and industry stakeholders to foster greater awareness of the importance of proper food handling, labelling, regulatory compliance, and ethical conduct in the marketplace.
Bello warned consumers to be knowledgeable and vigilant, informed, and always demand the standard they deserve.
Earlier, the Director, Consumer and Business Education, FCCPC, Mr Yahaya Gudan, reminded consumers of their right to good health.
Gudan said that the issues of food adulteration and forced ripening of fruits were concerns that affected not only health and well-being but also the integrity of the food chain.
He said that the practices posed a significant health challenge and undermined consumer trust in the food industry.
“Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and advocate for safer food practices in our communities.
“Together, we can create a safer food environment for everyone,” he said.
In his remarks, the state Coordinator of NAFDAC, Mr John Naeche, warned that using chemicals to ripen fruits was dangerous to health and should be stopped.
Also speaking, a participant, Mrs Nkoyo Etim, said that information learnt at the workshop would be disseminated to other market women to ensure the safety of food and avoid adulteration.
