The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has warned Lagos residents about the fast circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across the state, while highlighting the characteristics used to identify the product. 

The General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, gave the warning in a statement, signed by the assistant director of public affairs, Adesile Rufai, on Saturday, in Lagos, following complaints and market surveillance activities carried out by the agency.

Mr Solebo said investigations carried out by the agency revealed the presence of contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil being sold to unsuspecting consumers by unscrupulous traders.

“Especially the traders seeking to maximise profits at the expense of public health and consumer safety,” Mr Selebo said.

Revealing symptoms of adulterated palm oil, he said it contained harmful substances, including candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and impurities that should  not be digested by the body, among others

He said, “Consumption of such products could lead to serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue and liver damage, as well as other long-term health risks.

“This agency advises consumers to carefully examine palm oil by also checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments, or any suspicious appearance that might indicate contamination or adulteration.”

He also urged residents to patronise trusted and reputable vendors while demanding safe and quality products at all times.

The general manager reiterated the commitment of the Lagos State Government to protecting residents from unsafe and substandard products in the marketplace.

He disclosed that the agency had sealed a shop selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street, near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island, in the Lagos Island Local Government Area of the state.

The LASCOPA boss warned traders and distributors involved in the sale of adulterated palm oil to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions in line with the laws guiding consumer protection in Lagos State.

He further urged members of the public to promptly report suspected cases of adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, and violations of consumer rights to LASCOPA through its official communication channels for necessary investigation and enforcement action.

Mr Solebo said the agency would continue market monitoring, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure residents had access to safe, wholesome, and quality products across Lagos State. 

(NAN)