The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a statement clarifying that it has not raised any concerns regarding the safety of bread in Nigeria.
This announcement comes in light of a viral video that inaccurately suggests that the Agency advised Nigerians to avoid bread due to the alleged use of saccharine by some producers.
The controversial video, which has garnered significant attention, misrepresents the facts discussed during a stakeholders’ engagement held on August 16, 2024, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
NAFDAC firmly asserts that the use of saccharine in bread is strictly prohibited under Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) as well as the Codex General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA).
The Agency emphasizes that any baker found utilizing unapproved additives, such as saccharine, will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with existing regulatory protocols.
In the statement released by NAFDAC, the Agency reassures the public that at no point did it recommend avoiding domestically produced bread, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of the nation’s food supply.
NAFDAC categorically disassociates itself from the misleading claims presented in the video, describing them as personal opinions that do not accurately represent the Agency’s official stance.
Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, PhD, FAS, the Director-General and CEO of NAFDAC, underscored the importance of accurate information dissemination in maintaining public trust and food safety standards.
The Agency remains dedicated to fulfilling its role in protecting consumers and ensuring that food products available in Nigeria meet the highest safety standards.
NAFDAC encourages the public to seek information from credible sources and to remain vigilant against misinformation that can undermine public health and consumer confidence.
