NAFDAC Warns Bakeries Against Using Saccharin, Bromate In Bread Production

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning to bakeries, urging them to cease the use of saccharin and bromate in bread production due to their potential health hazards.

Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC’s Director-General, conveyed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), emphasizing that violators of this directive would face severe penalties, including the closure of their facilities.

She highlighted the agency’s reliance on post-marketing surveillance to enforce compliance.

“We routinely conduct inspections to check for certain products, sometimes triggered by complaints through our reform office.

“We have already shut down several bakeries for using bromate in their bread production. If we find or receive complaints about bromate in bread, we will close the bakery.”

Adeyeye also pointed out that several water production facilities had been closed for producing substandard products or operating under poor hygiene conditions.

“During the initial inspection, we take samples and test the products. However, some producers may alter their methods after registration.

“This is why post-marketing surveillance is crucial—it ensures that what was registered is what is being sold to consumers, maintaining product standards and market control,”she explained.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health by cracking down on unsafe practices in the food and beverage sector.