NAFDAC Warns Against Circulation of Substandard, Unregistered Edible Oils

NAFDAC Warns Against Circulation of Substandard, Unregistered Edible Oils

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong public alert regarding the growing circulation of substandard and unregistered edible oils across Nigeria.

In a statement released on December 9, 2025, the agency identified several brands, FINO, PUR, OKI, SUPER DELICIEX, and LA JONIC, as products whose sources, production processes, and safety standards remain unknown. These oils are being smuggled into the country and sold under multiple brand names in major markets nationwide, including Onitsha, Aba, Owerri, Warri, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Lagos, Kano, Sokoto, Maiduguri, and several other cities.

NAFDAC emphasized that these products lack identifiable manufacturer details and do not carry valid NAFDAC registration numbers, making them unsafe for public consumption. The agency warned that the oils are flooding Nigerian markets through illegal distribution networks, posing significant risks to public health. Consumers were urged to verify the registration status of edible oils before purchase and to report any suspected substandard or unregistered products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

The alert was reinforced by Lebruni Agro Limited, a registered Nigerian company that produces hygienically processed soybean and palm kernel oils. The company raised concerns after conducting internal market surveillance, which revealed the widespread presence of these adulterated oils.

According to NAFDAC, the circulation of such products undermines food safety standards, threatens consumer health, and compromises national security by encouraging smuggling and counterfeit practices.

This warning comes amid broader regulatory efforts by NAFDAC to safeguard public health. The agency has recently announced enforcement measures, including a total ban on alcohol sachets and small bottles beginning January 2026, and strengthened partnerships with customs authorities to curb the importation of unsafe food products.

The latest alert underscores NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting Nigerians from hazardous consumables and ensuring that only registered, quality-assured products reach the market.

In conclusion, NAFDAC’s warning highlights the urgent need for vigilance among consumers and stricter enforcement against illegal distributors.

The circulation of unregistered edible oils is not only a public health concern but also a challenge to regulatory integrity and national security.