The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has raised serious concerns over the increasing circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across the state.
The General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, on Thursday said complaints and market surveillance revealed the presence of contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil being sold to unsuspecting consumers by some unscrupulous traders.
Mr Solebo said the adulteration is aimed at maximising profits at the expense of public health and consumer safety.
Health risks
He warned that adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and other impurities that the body cannot digest and can cause serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, liver and tissue damage, and other long-term risks.
He advised consumers to carefully examine palm oil before purchase by checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments, or any suspicious appearance that may indicate contamination or adulteration.
“Consumers are also encouraged to patronise only trusted and reputable vendors while demanding quality and safe products at all times,” he said.
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Enforcement action taken
Reiterating the state government’s commitment to protecting residents from unsafe and substandard products in the marketplace, Mr Solebo said the agency had sealed a shop sale selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island in the Lagos Island Local Government Area.
He warned traders and distributors engaging in the sale of adulterated palm oil to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law guiding consumer protection in the state.
The agency further urged members of the public to promptly report cases of suspected adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, or consumer rights violations to LASCOPA through its official communication channels for necessary investigation and enforcement action.
LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous market monitoring, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure that residents have access to safe, wholesome, and quality products across the state.
