The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has said access to safe, unadulterated, and nutritious food is a key pillar of public health.
The executive vice chairman of the Commission, Mr. Olatunji Bello, stated this in a one day sensitisation campaign on food quality standard, safety regulations and safe business practices.
Bello, who was represented by the director, Quality Assurance and Development, Dr. Nkechi Mba, also said ‘Food is not merely for sustenance or a commodity; it is a fundamental human right.’
Bello in his keynote address at the event held at Novel Suite Rayfield Jos on Thursday noted that the Commission has a statutory responsibility to protect and promote the interest and welfare of consumers as well as ensure fair competition.
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He said, “Ensuring the quality and safety of what we eat is not a responsibility that rests solely with regulators or manufacturers, it is a shared commitment.”
He pointed out that the issues of food quality standards, safety, and fair business practices are more pressing than ever, but we continue to witness alarming trends like the forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals such as calcium carbide, adulteration of food products with dangerous additives and preservative chemicals such as bromate, and improper handling and contamination across the food value chain.
“These practices not only endanger the lives of millions of Nigerians, but they also erode consumer trust and sabotage the integrity of our food systems.”
He stressed that the FCCPC, as the apex consumer protection body in Nigeria, has the statutory mandate to promote consumer interests, ensure fair market practices, and prevent exploitative or dangerous conduct in all sectors of the economy, including the food and agricultural sector.
He told stakeholders at the event that they are critical to the nation’s food security and health, as they say, “you are what you eat”. Therefore, you all have the responsibility and duty of care to the public as every product you put on the shelves for consumers affects a family or a community positively or negatively.
“Let it be known that any operator who places profit over public safety will face the full wrath of the law.
“To the food industry stakeholders: note that the future of your businesses depends on your integrity. Upholding food safety and quality is not only a legal obligation but a moral duty.
“To the consumers: note that knowledge is power. Be vigilant, be informed, and demand the standards you deserve. When you are empowered, you help elevate the entire system by rewarding businesses that act responsibly and discouraging those that cut corners.”
