Dr Adamu Abdullahi, the Ag Executive Vice Chairman, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), says that the commission was committed to ensure that consumers get quality and safe food.
He stated this during a one-day sensitisation programme on forceful ripening of fruits, adulterated palm oil, contaminated meat and grains organised for traders, farmers, artisans and food vendors in Bauchi on Tuesday.
Represented by Dr Nkechi Mba, Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, FCCPC, headquarters, Abdullahi said this was done by educating the farmers, sellers and buyers, hence the sensitisation.
“The FCCPC is passionate to ensure that the consumers get quality and safe food products. Consumer health is our concern.
“When we consume unsafe and poor quality or substandard food products, there are health implications because these adulterated food products become hazardous to the human body.
“Things like forceful ripening of fruits with chemicals like calcium carbide are harmful to the body.
“When we don’t allow food to get ripped before harvesting them and we use chemicals to artificially ripen them, it is not good for our body.
“We may make profit from selling these goods but people can die from what you have sold to them. People can have allergic reactions and even organs get damaged,” he said.
He called on the participants to make use of the knowledge gathered for the good of their families and the country at large.
Also speaking, Mr Yahaya Kudan, Director, Consumer and Business Education Department of FCCPC, lamented the increased incidences of harmful practices in food production and processing.
These practices, he said, did not only pose significant health risks but also undermine consumer trust in the food industry.
According to him, the FCCPC is committed to protecting consumers and ensuring that they have access to safe and high-quality food.
“This program is a testament to our dedication to educating and empowering consumers, farmers, vendors, and all stakeholders involved in the food supply chain.
“Throughout today’s sessions, we will hear from experts who will share valuable insights on how to identify and prevent these harmful practices.
“We will learn about the dangers of forceful ripening, the risks of consuming adulterated palm oil, the hazards of contaminated meat, and how to ensure the quality and safety of grains.
“Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and advocate for safer food practices in our communities,” he said.