By Abdullahi jalaluddeen
Nutrition experts in Nigeria are sounding the alarm over the widespread consumption of unbranded and unfortified edible oils, warning that this practice poses significant health risks, particularly to children and vulnerable populations.
This concern was highlighted at a one-day media workshop for health editors, organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with CS-SUNN,SNO and e-HEALTH Africa ,Held at Tahir Guest Palace Kano.
According to data from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, a staggering 67% of Nigerians consume unbranded edible oils, while only 31% of oils on the market are fortified.
This leaves a large nutritional gap, contributing to widespread micronutrient deficiencies, particularly Vitamin A deficiency.
Hope Ikani, Program Officer at CS-SUNN, emphasized that patronizing unfortified oils, though seemingly affordable, poses long-term risks to public health.
She said Vitamin A deficiency among over three million children has been significantly reduced through fortification efforts, but the continued prevalence of cheap, unbranded bulk oils threatens these gains.
Stakeholders at the workshop urged the public to avoid bulk oils commonly sold in open markets, stressing that these products often lack essential nutrients and are sometimes adulterated.
Peter Olushola, Communication Manager at CS-SUNN, emphasized that food fortification must be embedded into national health strategies and delivered through coordinated public-private partnerships.
Among the key solutions to the menace which were discussed during the workshop includes Mandatory Fortification Policies,Effective policies backed by government enforcement and supported by the private sector,Increased Monitoring,Regulatory bodies should step up monitoring to ensure fortified staples are readily available and accessible and Media Engagement,Journalists have a responsibility to tell compelling, evidence-based stories that inform and inspire action.
Stakeholders believed that Large-scale food fortification is not just a health initiative but a national development strategy that improves cognitive development in children, reduces healthcare costs, and enhances economic productivity.
The workshop underscored the need for cross-sector collaboration and media engagement to strengthen Nigeria’s food fortification efforts, safeguarding children and vulnerable populations.
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