The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to traders and food processors in Kano State against the use of harmful additives, preservatives, and chemicals in food production and preservation. The commission highlighted the growing public health risks posed by such practices and urged stakeholders across the food value chain to prioritise safety, hygiene, and compliance with national food standards.
Speaking during a one-day sensitisation campaign on food quality standards, safety, regulation, and fair business practices organised for the Kano business community, the Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC emphasised that food is more than just a commodity, it is a fundamental human right. Access to safe, nutritious, and unadulterated food, he noted, is essential for public health, economic growth, and national security.
The commission expressed concern over the rising use of toxic substances such as bromate, Sudan red colorant, sniper, and formalin in food adulteration, warning that such chemicals are hazardous to human health and could have long-term consequences for consumers. “We continue to witness alarming trends such as the forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals like calcium carbide, which contains trace amounts of arsenic and phosphorus — both highly toxic to humans,” the FCCPC stated.
Other unsafe practices highlighted include improper food handling, poor storage, unhygienic environments, and contamination from exposure to flies, insects, and rodents. The commission stressed that such lapses not only compromise food quality but also increase the risk of foodborne diseases and other health emergencies.
The FCCPC said it is intensifying its monitoring and enforcement activities to curb these practices and ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations. It urged traders, manufacturers, and food handlers to adopt global best practices, invest in proper storage and handling facilities, and refrain from shortcuts that endanger public health.
The sensitisation campaign also focused on educating the business community on the economic benefits of compliance, including enhanced consumer trust, increased market access, and the potential for local products to compete favourably in regional and international markets.
By strengthening regulation and raising awareness, the FCCPC aims to protect consumers, promote fair business practices, and support Nigeria’s broader efforts to improve food security and public health outcomes.
