Advocate.ng Latest news update on politics, entertainment, sport and more
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has recently issued a clarification regarding the presence of Nestle’s Nido follow-up milk formula in the Nigerian market.
Amid concerns about the addition of sugar and honey to infant milk and cereal products in various countries, NAFDAC has confirmed that Nido is not registered in Nigeria and is not available in the market.
In a press statement, the Agency emphasized that the range of Nestle Cerelac infant cereals distributed in Nigeria are duly registered with NAFDAC in accordance with both national and international food standards.
These standards cover processed cereal-based foods intended for feeding infants as complementary food from the age of six months.
Furthermore, NAFDAC explained that national and international food standards permit the addition of sucrose, fructose, glucose, glucose syrup, or honey to products consisting of cereals under certain conditions.
Specifically, the amount of added carbohydrates from these sources must not exceed the stated levels to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
The Agency reiterated its commitment to exercising due regulatory diligence in the registration of infant and young children’s foods distributed and used in Nigeria, in line with relevant Codex Alimentarius international food standards and Nigerian Industrial Standards.
NAFDAC’s primary focus is to ensure the growth, health, and development of children to their full potential through adequate and optimal nutrition during infancy and early childhood.
NAFDAC also reassured the public that the Agency is fully committed to its responsibilities of assuring the safety, wholesomeness, and quality of infant and young children’s foods offered for sale in Nigeria.
The management of NAFDAC is actively participating in international food standards-setting processes to ensure the protection of consumers’ health and fair international food trade.
The clarification provided by NAFDAC on the Nestle Sugar Saga underscores the importance of adhering to international and national food standards, as well as the vital role of regulatory bodies in safeguarding the health and well-being of the Nigerian population.
Subscribe to the Advocate News letter and receive news updates daily in your inbox.
