- Safiu Kehinde
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NAFDAC, has raised alarm over the usage of dye, bleach, and other hazardous materials in the local production of palm oil, fufu, and other staple foods sold in open market.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the NAFDAC’s Director-General, alerted the public about the adulteration of the staple foods with the dangerous chemicals during a press briefing held on Monday.
Adeyeye, in her address, expressed concern over the trend which poses greater risk to human health.
‘NAFDAC has noted with great concern the unethical and illegal practises associated with the production, distribution, and sale of palm oil, akpu or fufu and some staple foods in Nigeria.
‘The adulteration of palm oil with azo dyes and other hazardous contaminants has been observed particularly in palm oil packaged and presented in the traditional forms.
‘Fufu, fermented cassava tubers and other staple foods are also reported to be produced by adding bleach and other chemicals that are injurious to human health.’ She said.
The NAFDAC DG called on the sub-national authorities to oversee the inspection and regulation of the staple foods in line with the national food safety policy as she disclosed that her agency has no jurisdiction over unbranded palm oil, fufu, and other foods sold in the market.
‘The agency does not have direct and open market absolute regulatory oversight over unbranded palm oil, fufu, and other staple foods packaged in the traditional way and sold in open market.
‘Packaged and NAFDAC registered palm oil and other food products available in the country have undergone applicable regulatory procedures designed to ensure that they are safe for use.
‘Sub-national authorities also have important roles to play in ensuring the safety and quality of such products in line with the national food safety policy.’ She said.