Bakery Revolt: NAFDAC Warns Over Use of Saccharin, Bromate in Bread Production
NAFDAC has sounded the alarm over the use of saccharin and bromate in bread production by bakeries across the country. The unequivocal warning was made by the agency’s Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, while attending the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum.
She warned that bakeries caught red-handed would face the harshest consequences. “This is where our post-market surveillance comes in,” she said. “We regularly conduct inspections to track down certain products; sometimes following complaints forwarded to our reform office.
“We have closed down several bakeries for using bromate in bread production. If we discover that bromate is present in the bread, whether following a report or a tasting, we will close the bakery. “We have also closed many water production plants due to substandard production or unhygienic conditions. Our Regulatory Inspection Directorate is essential because it ensures that the products presented during registration are in line with those marketed.
During the initial inspection, we take samples and test them. Sometimes, after registration, manufacturers change their production process or formula. This is why post-market surveillance is so crucial. It ensures that the products marketed are in line with the standards and safeguard public health.
This warning from NAFDAC should encourage bakeries to strictly adhere to production standards in order to protect the health of consumers. It is essential that regulatory authorities remain vigilant and act firmly against any harmful practices in the food industry. Consumers must also be informed and aware of the potential risks of consuming contaminated food products.