The Ondo State Government said cocoa beans adulteration compromises its quality, causes loss of premium value and attracts discounts on the goods in the global market.

Permanent Secretary of Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Segun Odusanya, stated this on Saturday in Akure while addressing journalists on the government’s commitment to combating adulteration.

Mr Odusanya explained that the ministry recently seized adulterants in Ireje community, Ondo East Local Government Area of the state.

He said, “Ondo State, being the highest cocoa producer in Nigeria, is severely impacted by these activities, which tarnishes the state and country’s image at the international market. We will continue fighting this war against adulteration. Although it’s a significant challenge, we won’t relent until the state is free from this harmful practice. Meanwhile, the recent arrest, a female suspect who specialises in supplying adulterants, will face the full force of the law in accordance with the produce laws.’’

Mr Odusanya called on the residents to join forces with the government to eradicate the menace, detrimental to the state and country’s reputation in the international market.

Also, Director of Produce Licensing in the ministry, Sunday Dosumu, explained that the female suspect was caught by the zero-tolerance task force on adulteration while on routine patrol in Ireje community.

He said, “The suspect was found with bags of dried kolanut that had been cut into smaller pieces, which contains nicotine that compromises cocoa beans quality. She also had bags of fresh and dried cocoa pods that had been cut into smaller parts.’’

Mr Dosumu, who frowned at the activities of some cocoa merchants, said that despite the awareness campaigns, some individuals still engaged in adulteration.

According to him, the primary motive behind adulteration is to artificially increase weight and profit by adding particles to cocoa beans, which is inimical to produce trade.

(NAN)