NAFDAC clears BON bread over two-month shelf life controversy

Says manufacturer in compliance with food safety regulations

By Chioma Obinna

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, on Sunday released the outcome of its investigation into the controversial two-month shelf life claim surrounding BON Bread, clearing Food & Food Integrated Company Limited, manufacturer of the product, of any wrongdoing following widespread social media allegations that the bread remained fresh for over two months without molding.

The controversy erupted after an internet blogger alleged on April 13, 2026, that a loaf of bread supplied to her for sale had stayed for more than two months without showing signs of spoilage, raising public concerns over possible harmful preservatives.

Although the complainant did not initially mention the bread brand, Food & Food Integrated Company Limited identified BON Bread as the product in question and denied any wrongdoing.

Reacting to the public outcry, NAFDAC said it immediately launched an investigation to establish the scientific facts surrounding the allegation.

In a press statement signed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Christianah Adeyeye, the agency disclosed that officials from its Greater FCT Directorate carried out an investigative inspection of the company’s bakery facility in Abuja on April 20, 2026.

The agency said bread samples and condiments were obtained directly from the production facility, while additional samples were purchased from the open market for laboratory analysis.

According to the agency, findings from the investigation showed that the company complied fully with regulatory standards and did not violate any food safety regulations.

“Laboratory findings revealed that calcium propionate was used as preservative, and that the amount of the preservative used was within the limits specified in Codex Alimentarius (Food Code),” NAFDAC stated.

The agency further explained that all three sets of BON Bread samples analyzed from both the factory and the open market were satisfactory.

“The bread samples analyzed did not contain objectionable substances, including bromate and non-nutritive sweeteners,” the agency added.

NAFDAC noted that bread manufacturers are permitted globally to use approved preservation methods capable of extending shelf life, provided they comply with standards outlined in the Codex Alimentarius, an internationally recognised food safety standard.

“As a result of the foregoing, the public is hereby informed that the company is not in violation of any of the agency’s regulations,” the agency declared.

NAFDAC also urged Nigerians to report concerns about regulated products directly to the agency through its offices, electronic platforms or recently launched call centre instead of resorting first to social media.

“This will ensure that such matters are discreetly and thoroughly investigated,” the agency said.

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