The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned food vendors against the adulteration of goods and produce.
The Executive Chairman, Mr Olatunji Bello, said this on wednesday in Uyo during a one-day sensitisation campaign on forced ripening of fruits, adulteration of palm oil, and contaminated meat and grains.
Bello, who was represented by the Director of Quality Assurance and Development in the commission, Dr Nkechi Mba, said that any vendor who places profit over public safety would face sanctions. He explained that the FCCPC, being the apex consumer protection commission in the country, would continue to ensure fair market practices and prevent consumers from being endangered in all sectors of the economy.
Bello added that food adulteration and forced fruits ripening in markets were dangerous to health and urge the vendors to desist from such act.
“Across the country and around the world, there is the need for strict adherence to food regulations as a matter of urgent public interest.
“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.
According to him, Food safety is everyone’s responsibility and FCCPC remains firmly committed to working with all stakeholders to build a market place that is fair, transparent and safe for consumers.
“Upholding food safety and quality is not only a legal obligation but a moral duty,” Bello said.
Earlier, the Director, Consumer and Business Education, FCCPC, Mr Yahaya Gudan, reminded consumers of their right to good health.
Gudan said that the issue of food adulteration and forced ripening of fruits were issues that affected not only the health and wellbeing but also the integrity of food chain.
He said that the practices posed 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 chemical to ripen fruits was dangerous to health and should be stopped.
Also Speaking, a participants, Mrs Nkoyo Etim, said that information learnt at the workshop would be disseminated to other market women to ensure safety of food and avoid adulteration.
