NAFDAC has warned palm oil sellers against adding harmful Azodie chemical to make products redder.
The agency says the practice threatens public health and vowed strict action on offenders.
The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cautioned palm oil marketers against the illegal use of Azodie, a chemical substance reportedly added to palm oil to enhance its redness artificially.
Speaking in Minna, the Zonal Director of NAFDAC’s North Central Zone, Dr. Kenneth Azikwe, described the practice as a grave public health risk, warning that offenders would face strict sanctions.
“Unscrupulous traders usually engage in this act at night to deceive unsuspecting buyers. Such sharp practices will not be tolerated. Anyone caught adding Azodie to palm oil will face the full weight of the law,” Azikwe stated.
Azikwe highlighted the role of digital platforms such as NAPALMS, RETURATION PORTER, and the National Single Trade Window, which he said are helping to regulate the palm oil sector and improve stakeholder accountability.
He further called on the Niger State Government to allocate land for the construction of a permanent NAFDAC office in the state, stressing that this would strengthen regulatory presence and improve enforcement capacity.
The agency urged consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing palm oil and to report any suspicious products or practices to the relevant authorities.
