Lagos raises alarm over adulterated palm oil in circulation

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has raised concerns over the circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across the state, following reports of contaminated products being sold to unsuspecting consumers.

In a statement shared via the Lagos state government’s official X handle, the agency said its market surveillance activities and consumer complaints revealed the sale of artificially enhanced palm oil by some traders.

Afolabi Solebo, the general manager of LASCOPA warned that the adulterated products may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and other impurities capable of causing serious health complications.

According to him, consumption of such products could lead to food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue damage, and liver-related diseases.

He also disclosed that the agency had sealed a shop located at Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island, over the sale of adulterated palm oil.

Solebo advised consumers to be cautious when purchasing palm oil, noting that unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, and visible sediments could be indicators of contamination. He urged residents to patronise only trusted and verified vendors.

He further warned traders engaged in the distribution of adulterated products to desist from such practices or face sanctions under Lagos State consumer protection laws.

LASCOPA said it will continue market monitoring, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure the availability of safe and quality food products across the state.