By Desire Emmanuel
The Lagos State government, through the state consumer protection agency (LASCOPA), on Thursday, May 21, raised the alarm over adulterated palm oil that has flooded various markets in the state.
The agency warned residents in the state to be vigilant while buying the commodity in the markets.
It disclosed that complaints and market surveillance activities carried out by its officials revealed the presence of contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil being sold to unsuspecting consumers by some unscrupulous traders seeking to maximise profits at the expense of public health and consumer safety.
The agency warned that adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and impurities which cannot be digested by the body and are capable of causing health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue and liver damage, and other long-term health risks.
It further advised consumers to carefully examine palm oil before purchase by checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments, or any suspicious appearance that may indicate contamination or adulteration.
Consumers are also encouraged to patronise only trusted and reputable vendors while demanding quality and safe products at all times.
To demonstrate the seriousness of the matter, the agency sealed off a shop said to be selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island area of the state.
LASCOPA warned traders and distributors engaging in the sale of adulterated palm oil to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions while also urging residents to promptly report cases of adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, or consumer rights violations through its official communication channels for necessary investigation and enforcement action.
