The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has sealed a shop selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street, near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island.
LASCOPA expressed concern over the increasing circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across Lagos State, warning consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing the product.
Speaking on the development, the General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, disclosed that complaints and market surveillance activities had revealed the presence of contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil being sold to unsuspecting consumers by what he described as unscrupulous traders seeking to maximise profits at the expense of public health and consumer safety.
Solebo warned that adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and impurities that cannot be digested by the body and are capable of causing serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue and liver damage, as well as other long-term health risks.
He urged 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.
The General Manager also encouraged consumers to patronise only trusted and reputable vendors while demanding quality and safe products at all times.
Solebo reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting residents from unsafe and substandard products in the marketplace.
He warned traders and distributors engaged in the sale of adulterated palm oil to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law guiding consumer protection in Lagos State.
The Agency further urged members of the public to promptly report cases of suspected adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, or consumer rights violations to LASCOPA through its official communication channels for necessary investigation and enforcement action.
LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous market monitoring, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure that residents have access to safe, wholesome, and quality products across the state.
