The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raised concerns about the presence of substandard and unregistered sugar in Nigerian markets.
The FCCPC revealed that several smuggled sugar brands from Brazil, including Grupo Moreno, Terous, USI S. Joao, Alvean, and Arapora Bionergia, failed to meet mandatory Vitamin A fortification standards. The absence of fortification, which is essential for good vision and immune health, poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.
The FCCPC also highlighted the economic impact of these substandard imports, noting that they create unfair competition and undermine the integrity of the local sugar industry. Smuggling, facilitated through porous borders with neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Benin Republic, has exacerbated the problem, making enforcement and traceability difficult.
To address the issue, the FCCPC has announced a series of measures, including nationwide awareness campaigns to educate consumers on verifying sugar product authenticity.
The commission is collaborating with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigeria Customs Service, and other agencies to intensify surveillance and disrupt smuggling networks.
The FCCPC urged consumers to remain vigilant and report suspected substandard sugar products through the commission’s official channels.
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