The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has encouraged Nigerians to carefully read food labels before purchasing packaged food products, saying the habit can help consumers make healthier and safer choices.
The advice was shared in the first episode of the agency’s #NAFDACExplains series published on its official X platform.
Speaking during an interview, a food safety expert with NAFDAC’s Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Directorate, Abubakar Umar, said many buyers focus only on a product’s brand, appearance or price, while ignoring the information provided on the label.
He explained that food labels contain important details that enable consumers to make informed decisions for themselves and their families.
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Umar advised shoppers to first check the expiry or date marking to ensure a product is still within its shelf life before buying it.
He also urged consumers to examine the list of ingredients, especially those with allergies or special dietary needs, to avoid substances that may be harmful to their health.
According to him, buyers should also review the nutrition information panel, which provides details on nutrients such as sugar, salt, fats and protein, helping them choose foods that support a balanced diet.
The food safety expert further stressed the need to confirm that packaged foods carry a valid NAFDAC registration number, noting that it shows the product has passed the agency’s registration process before reaching the market.
NAFDAC also reminded consumers that taking a few moments to read food labels before making a purchase can help them make informed decisions and protect their health.
