The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised concerns over the proliferation of substandard and unregistered sugar products in Nigerian markets. These low-quality sugars, mostly smuggled from Brazil, pose significant health risks to consumers and undermine the country’s local sugar industry.
In a statement released on Wednesday, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, revealed that several sugar brands, including Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S.Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia, failed to meet the mandatory health and safety standards. Notably, these products lack the required Vitamin A fortification, increasing risks of blindness and other health complications among consumers, particularly vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
The FCCPC’s investigation uncovered that these smuggled products lacked crucial labelling information such as production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration numbers. This indicates that the products have not undergone safety testing, heightening risks to public health.
“The absence of Vitamin A fortification in these products exposes consumers to severe health risks, including blindness and a weakened immune system,” Ijagwu stated.
In addition to health concerns, the FCCPC noted the adverse economic effects of sugar smuggling, which disrupts fair competition and places compliant local producers at a disadvantage. Smuggling is reportedly facilitated by porous borders with neighboring countries like Cameroon and Benin Republic, complicating enforcement and traceability efforts.
The commission reassured the public of its commitment to tackling the issue and encouraged consumers to remain vigilant. Suspicious or substandard sugar products can be reported via FCCPC’s email at contact@fccpc.gov.ng or through its official social media channels.
This alert underscores the importance of adhering to regulatory standards and prioritizing consumer safety in the Nigerian market.
