Table of Contents
- NAFDAC's Warning
- Prohibited Products
- Health Risks
- Directive to Importers
- Importance of Compliance
- Call for Collaboration
- Agency's Commitment
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning regarding the increasing smuggling and distribution of banned food products throughout the nation, characterizing this trend as a significant threat to public health and a breach of national trade regulations.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Agency noted that products such as pasta, noodles, sugar, and tomato paste have been discovered in markets despite being included on the Federal Government’s Customs Prohibition List.
“These products are explicitly listed on the Federal Government’s Customs Prohibition List and are not authorized for importation,” NAFDAC stated.
The Agency cautioned that the distribution of these items undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s food control system and puts citizens at risk of consuming unsafe products.
“The circulation of these prohibited items contravenes national trade laws, compromises the integrity of the country’s food control system, and presents considerable risks to public health,” the statement emphasized.
“These products have not undergone the Agency’s mandatory safety assessments and quality assurance procedures.”
NAFDAC instructed all importers, supermarket operators, open-market traders, and other stakeholders to immediately cease the importation, sale, and distribution of all items listed as prohibited.
Stakeholders were also urged to fully comply with NAFDAC regulations and inform their supply chain partners to halt any related transactions.
“Non-compliance will result in strict enforcement actions, including the seizure and destruction of prohibited goods, suspension or revocation of operational licenses, and prosecution in accordance with applicable laws,” the Agency warned.
The regulator further called upon key government agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Shippers Council, SON, NIMASA, NPA, and NAQS, to enhance collaboration to prevent the circulation of unsafe products.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, reiterated the Agency’s dedication to protecting public health.
“NAFDAC remains committed to ensuring the health of Nigerians and enforcing strict compliance with regulatory standards,” she stated, encouraging stakeholders to support ongoing enforcement initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are prohibited by NAFDAC?
NAFDAC prohibits various products including pasta, noodles, sugar, and tomato paste as per the Federal Government’s Customs Prohibition List.
What actions will NAFDAC take against non-compliance?
NAFDAC will enforce strict actions such as the seizure and destruction of prohibited goods, suspension or revocation of operational licenses, and legal prosecution.
How can stakeholders comply with NAFDAC regulations?
Stakeholders are advised to cease the importation, sale, and distribution of prohibited items and to inform their supply chain partners to halt any related transactions.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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