The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has uncovered substandard and unregistered sugar products in Nigerian markets, with a focus on the South-West and North-East regions.
In a statement on Wednesday, FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu revealed that the products, many of which were smuggled from Brazil, lacked proper labelling and did not meet mandatory Vitamin A fortification standards.
“These products, smuggled through porous borders with countries like Cameroon and Benin Republic, fail to meet production and expiry date requirements, batch numbers, and NAFDAC registration. This poses serious health risks to consumers,” the statement read.
The FCCPC identified the smuggled brands as Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S. Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia. The commission emphasized the dangers of consuming these products, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
“Most of the products were not fortified with Vitamin A, a critical nutrient essential for good vision, immune health, and overall well-being. The absence of this fortification exposes Nigerian consumers to risks such as blindness and increased susceptibility to infections,” Ijagwu stated.
Beyond health concerns, the FCCPC highlighted the economic impact of the substandard imports, which create unfair competition for local producers. “These products undermine the integrity of the local sugar industry and contribute to price manipulation that harms the market,” he added.
