LASCOPA, the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, has shut down a shop on Lagos Island for allegedly selling adulterated palm kernel oil, amid increasing concerns over the circulation of contaminated products in markets across the state.
The agency sounded the alert warning residents to be careful when buying palm oil from traders and vendors.
LASCOPA General Manager, Afolabi Solebo in a statement said that complaints from consumers and findings from market surveillance operations showed that some traders allegedly sold contaminated and artificially enhanced palm oil to unsuspecting buyers with the aim of increasing profits.
He said the adulterated product could contain harmful substances that pose serious health risks to consumers.
Solebo cautioned that some of the substances allegedly found in the adulterated palm oil include candle wax, chemicals, dyes and other impurities which the body cannot properly digest.
He said the consumption of such products could lead to food poisoning, stomach complications, tissue damage, liver problems and other long-term health conditions.
The LASCOPA boss advised consumers to check for unusual colour, offensive smell, excessive thickness, sediments or any suspicious appearance that may suggest contamination before buying palm oil.
He also appealed to residents to patronise only trusted and reputable sellers, while insisting on safe and quality products at all times.
Solebo, who restated the commitment of the Lagos State Government to the safety of consumers, disclosed that the agency sealed a shop allegedly involved in the sale of adulterated palm kernel oil along Idutafa Lane, off Oluwa Street, near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque in Lagos Island Local Government Area.
“The Agency had sealed a shop sale selling adulterated palm kernel oil along Idutafa Lane off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island in Lagos Island Local Government Area, Lagos state,” he said.
He cautioned traders and distributors involved in the sale of adulterated palm oil to stop the practice or face sanctions in line with the laws guiding consumer protection in Lagos State.
The agency also urged members of the public to report cases involving suspected adulterated food items, deceptive trade practices and other forms of consumer rights violations through LASCOPA’s official communication channels for investigation and necessary action.
LASCOPA assured residents that it will continue to monitor the market, sensitise the public and partner with relevant stakeholders to ensure the sale of safe and quality products in Lagos State.
