The Federal Government has cautioned fruit vendors across Nigeria against the sale of force-ripened fruits, warning that offenders will face stiff penalties.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr Olatunji Bello, issued the warning during a one-day sensitisation programme in Gombe State.
Bello, represented by the Director of Quality Assurance and Development, Dr Nkechi Mba, said the use of harmful chemicals to accelerate fruit ripening poses serious health risks to consumers.
He noted that the FCCPC would intensify enforcement of food safety standards in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and other regulatory agencies.
The sensitisation campaign also addressed the dangers of adulterated palm oil, contaminated meat, and grains. Bello urged farmers, processors, vendors, and traders to uphold hygiene standards, avoid unsafe chemicals, and ensure accurate labelling of products.
“The FCCPC has a statutory duty to protect consumers and ensure fair competition in the marketplace,” he said, adding that the awareness campaign aimed to educate and empower both consumers and industry stakeholders on proper food handling, regulatory compliance, and ethical business practices.
