In a major crackdown on counterfeit food products, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in collaboration with producers of Big Bull rice, has seized over 120 bags of fake rice from several shops in Port Harcourt. The agency’s operation targeted key markets including Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1, where large quantities of counterfeit rice were being sold to unsuspecting consumers.
The raids, which took place on Thursday, uncovered significant evidence of widespread rice fraud, with NAFDAC officials finding counterfeit Big Bull rice bags alongside other brands, including Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride. According to a statement released by NAFDAC, the operation was part of ongoing efforts to protect consumers from dangerous food products that are potentially harmful to public health.
A shop located along the YKC axis of Woji was identified as a major distribution center for the fake rice. Officials discovered a large stock of empty counterfeit Big Bull rice bags in the shop, which were being used to rebag rice from unknown sources. Additionally, other rice brands’ packaging materials were found, indicating the widespread nature of the operation.
During the raid, a salesgirl identified as Ogechi Okafor was apprehended. Okafor was found in possession of sewing and sealing machines, a generator, and several bags of already re-bagged rice. The machines, which are used to reseal rice bags, were seized along with other tools used in the counterfeiting process, including thread and a stove, further highlighting the sophistication of the operation.
Pharm. Emmanuel Onogwu, NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, explained that counterfeit rice is often sourced from questionable suppliers and may be treated with harmful chemicals to improve its appearance. He warned that such rice may pose serious health risks, as the chemicals used could be harmful to human health when consumed.
“The rice is often re-bagged from unknown sources and might be treated with harmful chemicals to give it a shiny appearance,” Onogwu said. “These chemicals can cause severe health problems, especially when consumed over a long period.”
Onogwu also highlighted key features that consumers should look for when purchasing genuine Big Bull rice to avoid falling victim to these counterfeit products. Authentic Big Bull rice bags have a distinct shiny ribbon across the threaded top, superior bag quality, and a clear logo that is easily identifiable. Consumers are urged to always check for these markers before making a purchase.
This raid is the latest in a series of actions by NAFDAC to curb the rising trend of food counterfeiting in Nigeria. The sale of fake food products, especially rice, has become a significant concern in many parts of the country, as unscrupulous traders take advantage of consumers seeking affordable food options.
The counterfeit rice market has been growing, with fake rice being produced and sold at a lower price than the genuine product. While the lower price may attract consumers, the health risks associated with consuming such products are far-reaching. In some cases, chemicals used in rebagged rice can cause poisoning, food allergies, or other serious health complications.
As of now, the over 120 fake bags of rice seized in the raid have been transported to the NAFDAC Zonal Office in Port Harcourt for further investigation. NAFDAC officials have promised to continue their efforts to track down and prosecute individuals involved in the production and sale of counterfeit food products.
Pharm. Onogwu reassured the public that NAFDAC is committed to ensuring that all food products sold in the state and the entire country are safe for consumption. He highlighted that the agency would not relent in its efforts to crack down on food fraudsters who compromise public health for personal gain.
“We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure that these fraudulent activities are stopped,” he said. “Our goal is to protect the health of Nigerians, and we will not hesitate to take action against those who endanger lives for profit.”
NAFDAC has called on consumers to be more vigilant when purchasing food products, particularly rice, and other essentials. Consumers are advised to always purchase food from trusted sources, check for proper labelling, and examine packaging carefully to ensure the product is genuine.
The crackdown on counterfeit rice in Port Harcourt serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by food fraud and the importance of consumer vigilance. With NAFDAC’s continued efforts, there is hope that food safety in Nigeria will improve, and such fraudulent activities will become a thing of the past.
The prevalence of counterfeit food products, particularly rice, has wider implications for Nigeria’s food security and economic stability. Nigeria is one of the largest consumers of rice in Africa, and the ongoing challenges of counterfeiting threaten not only public health but also the integrity of the rice industry. By addressing these issues, NAFDAC aims to restore consumer confidence in the nation’s food systems, support local rice producers, and safeguard public health.
The success of NAFDAC’s raid in Port Harcourt highlights the agency’s ongoing commitment to combating food fraud, and it serves as a warning to other illegal traders involved in such activities. As the investigation continues, NAFDAC is expected to take further steps to dismantle counterfeit rice operations and ensure that consumers have access to safe, quality food products.
