The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAF myDAC) has taken decisive regulatory action by sealing a Chinese supermarket located in Wuse 2, Abuja. This action follows allegations of non-compliance with NAFDAC regulations, including the sale of goods labeled exclusively in Chinese and expired products.
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- 1 Investigation Initiated After Credible Tip-Off
- 2 Labeling Requirements: Why English Translations Are Crucial
- 3 Expired Goods Found During Inspection
- 4 Supermarket’s Import Practices Under Scrutiny
- 5 Regulatory Actions and Potential Punitive Measures
- 6 Protecting Consumers and Upholding Standards
- 7 Share this:
- 8 Like this:
- 9 Related
Investigation Initiated After Credible Tip-Off
NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, disclosed that the agency acted on credible information about the supermarket at Azba Mall. The tip revealed that the majority of the products sold were labeled in Chinese, violating NAFDAC’s labeling requirements.
“The information we received indicated that all the items being sold at the supermarket were labeled in Chinese, which violated NAFDAC regulations,” Mohammed stated.
Labeling Requirements: Why English Translations Are Crucial
NAFDAC regulations stipulate that all imported products must include English translations alongside any foreign language labeling. This ensures consumers can understand product details, including usage, ingredients, and expiration dates.
“Over 90% of the goods in this supermarket are labeled in Chinese. While some Nigerians may shop here, they should be able to read the information on the products,” Mohammed emphasized.
Expired Goods Found During Inspection
Further inspections revealed that some items on the shelves had expired, raising additional concerns about consumer safety. Mohammed clarified that even globally listed products must adhere to local labeling and safety standards.
“We found expired products on their shelves. This is unacceptable and a direct violation of our safety standards,” he added.
Supermarket’s Import Practices Under Scrutiny
The investigation will also examine how the supermarket imported the goods without adhering to NAFDAC’s approval process. Mohammed speculated that the supermarket might have bypassed regulatory checks during importation.
“NAFDAC would not have allowed these items, with foreign language descriptions, to pass through the port. They would have been intercepted immediately,” he explained.
Regulatory Actions and Potential Punitive Measures
NAFDAC has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation, including inspecting the supermarket’s warehouse and storage facilities. The agency has also summoned the supermarket’s owner for questioning.
If the violations are confirmed, NAFDAC may impose penalties ranging from administrative measures to regulatory sanctions. Mohammed noted that not all cases are taken to court, but appropriate actions will be enforced to prevent future violations.
Protecting Consumers and Upholding Standards
NAFDAC’s swift action underscores its commitment to protecting Nigerian consumers and maintaining high regulatory standards. The agency reassured the public of its dedication to ensuring all imported and locally distributed goods comply with safety and labeling regulations.
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