NAFDAC Refutes Viral Claims About Unsafe Bread in Nigeria
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed claims made in a viral video suggesting that bread sold in Nigerian markets is failing laboratory tests due to the use of saccharin in baking.
The video, titled “Bread sold in markets failing laboratory tests, NAFDAC raises fresh alarm,” inaccurately portrays the agency’s stance, according to a statement issued by NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.
“The content of the video does not reflect the observations made by the agency during a stakeholders’ meeting on Aug. 16 in Ibadan,” Adeyeye clarified. She emphasized that NAFDAC has never raised concerns about widespread use of saccharin in bread production.
NAFDAC reaffirmed that the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) and the Codex General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA) both prohibit the use of saccharin in bread. Sweeteners and food additives undergo rigorous safety assessments by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) before they are approved for use, she added.
“NAFDAC does not issue statements that cause unnecessary panic,” Adeyeye noted. “Any baker found using unapproved additives, such as saccharin, will face sanctions.”
The agency distanced itself from the reporter’s comments in the video, reassuring the public that NAFDAC remains committed to ensuring food safety in Nigeria.
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