FCCPC flags health, economic risks of smuggled low-quality sugar brands in Nigeria

NIGERIA – The Nigerian Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning over the proliferation of smuggled, substandard sugar brands in Nigerian markets, citing serious health and economic risks.  

Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, revealed that investigations identified several illegally imported sugar brands, including Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S.Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia, which failed to meet Nigeria’s mandatory health and safety standards.  

A significant concern is the lack of Vitamin A fortification, a legal requirement for sugar sold in Nigeria. 

“The absence of this fortification exposes consumers to severe health risks, including blindness and increased vulnerability to infections,” Ijagwu stated. He emphasized the critical role Vitamin A plays in the diet, especially for children and pregnant women.  

The FCCPC’s findings from key regions like the South-West and North-East also highlighted other deficiencies in these smuggled sugar products. 

Many were found without essential labelling information such as production and expiry dates, batch numbers, and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration numbers. This absence suggests that these products have not undergone proper safety testing.  

Beyond health concerns, the FCCPC expressed alarm over the economic implications of sugar smuggling. The illegal trade undermines fair competition, placing local producers who adhere to regulatory standards at a disadvantage. 

According to the commission, price manipulation and market distortions caused by these substandard products harm both consumers and legitimate businesses.  

The FCCPC attributed the influx of these illicit sugar products to Nigeria’s porous borders, particularly those shared with Cameroon and Benin Republic, which complicates enforcement efforts and product traceability.  

To address these challenges, the FCCPC pledged to intensify enforcement and surveillance efforts in collaboration with NAFDAC, the Nigeria Customs Service, and other relevant agencies.

The commission also announced plans to launch nationwide awareness campaigns to educate consumers on the dangers of non-fortified and improperly labelled sugar products.  

The FCCPC urged consumers to verify sugar products’ authenticity by checking for NAFDAC registration numbers and evidence of Vitamin A fortification.

It reiterated its commitment to upholding quality standards, safeguarding consumer health, and fostering fair competition in Nigeria’s sugar market.  

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