FCCPC Warns Nigerians About Dangerous Low-Quality Sugar Circulating in Markets

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the growing circulation of substandard and unregistered sugar products in the market. The Commission revealed that these products, originating from Brazil, include brands such as Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S. Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia, which are smuggled into the country.

According to a statement from Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, these products fail to meet mandatory Vitamin A fortification requirements, posing significant health risks to consumers. Vitamin A fortification is essential for good vision, immune health, and overall well-being. The lack of this nutrient in the sugar products increases the risk of blindness and other health complications, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.

Investigations by the FCCPC also revealed alarming lapses in labeling. Many of the sugar products lacked basic regulatory details such as production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and the necessary National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration.

Beyond the health risks, the Commission highlighted the economic implications of the smuggled products. They undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s sugar industry by fostering unfair competition. Compliant local producers who adhere to regulatory standards face undue pressure, while importers of these substandard products manipulate prices to the detriment of both genuine producers and consumers.

Ijagwu noted that the smuggling of these products is facilitated by porous borders, particularly through neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Benin Republic. This practice complicates enforcement efforts and hampers the ability to trace the origin of these goods.

In response to the situation, the FCCPC reassured the public that it is taking decisive action in line with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) of 2018. The agency is intensifying its enforcement activities, conducting nationwide awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the dangers of non-fortified sugar, and collaborating with regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and the Nigeria Customs Service. These efforts include market inspections and disrupting supply chains to limit the distribution of the smuggled products.

The Commission has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant by verifying that sugar products carry proper labeling, including NAFDAC registration and evidence of Vitamin A fortification. Consumers are encouraged to report any suspected substandard or unregistered sugar products to the FCCPC as part of the collective effort to ensure safety and integrity in the market.