THE Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned food vendors against adulteration of goods and produce. The Executive Chairman, Mr Olatunji Bello, said this during a one-day sensitisa-tion campaign on forced ripening of fruits, adulteration of palm oil, contaminated meat and grains, in Uyo. Represented by Dr Nkechi
Mba, the Director of Quality Assurance and Development in the commission, Bello said that any vendor that places profit over public safety would face sanction. He explained that FCCPC, being the apex consumer protection commission with mandate to protect consumer interest in the country, would continue to ensure fair market practices and prevent endangering of con-sumers in all sectors of the economy.
Bello added that food adulteration and forced fruits ripening in markets were dangerous to health and urged the vendors to desist from such act.
“Across the country and around the world, there is the need for strict adherence to food regulations as a matter of urgent public interest.
“Unsafe food not only endangers lives, but also undermines trust in markets, disrupts trade and damages the reputation of large and small businesses,” he said. According to him, Food safety is everyone’s responsibility and FCCPC remains firmly committed to working with all stakeholders to build a marketplace that is fair, transparent and safe for consumers.
“Upholding food safety and quality is not only a legal obligation but a moral duty,” Bello said.
Earlier, the Director, Consumer and Business Education, FCCPC, Mr Yahaya Gudan, reminded consumers of their right to good health.
Gudan said that the issue of food adulteration and forced ripening of fruits were issues that affected not only.