As the global community commemorates World Food Safety Day 2024, themed “Food safety: prepare for the unexpected,” Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on governments at all levels to prioritize effective food policies, security, and access to improve public health.
In a statement issued by Media and Communications Officer Robert Egbe, CAPPA commended the Nigerian government for its ongoing initiatives to enhance food accessibility and affordability. However, the organization emphasized that food safety remains a critical issue that needs urgent attention.
“Many Nigerians and local farmers are struggling to sustain their livelihoods and contribute to the food supply chain due to continuous armed conflicts and the adverse effects of climate change,” the statement read. “This situation has exacerbated food shortages, hunger, and inflation across the country.”
CAPPA also raised alarms about prevalent issues such as food adulteration, contamination, improper labeling, unverified food claims by producers, and consumer victimization by large food corporations. These challenges pose significant threats to the economy, public health, and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The organization reiterated the necessity for state authorities to enact and enforce comprehensive food and nutrition laws and policies. These measures are crucial not only for ensuring adequate food regulatory oversight but also for maintaining vigilance to safeguard Nigerians’ health.
Highlighting the health risks associated with the overconsumption of salt and sugar, CAPPA pointed out the link between these dietary habits and the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. These conditions place both economic and social strains on the country.
To counter these negative trends, CAPPA urged the government to implement food strategies that promote healthier diets and encourage producers to reformulate food products for better health outcomes. Specific recommendations included increasing taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages and setting mandatory salt limits in food products. These actions, proven effective globally, could help Nigeria bolster food safety and public well-being.
“Above all, we encourage Nigerians to prioritize their health by being mindful of their food consumption patterns. It is essential to avoid excessive intake of sugar, salt, and fat, which are linked to an increased risk of NCDs,” CAPPA concluded.
