The Nigerian Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said on Tuesday it seized fake wines in Nasarawa state, north-central Nigeria.
The agency made this known on its official X account, saying that the items were seized in Mararba, New Nyanya and Masaka market.
The agency’s statement reads in part: “NAFDAC has carried out a major raid on wine shops in Mararaba market and New Nyanya and Masaka areas of Nasarawa State.
“The operation targeted counterfeit and adulterated wines and spirits, resulting in the seizure of products valued at more than £41.2 million.
NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement team is actively investigating the importers or manufacturers behind these counterfeit drinks.”
NAFDAC seizes counterfeit wines
Health implication
Taking counterfeit or counterfeit consumer products, especially edible items such as wine, can have serious consequences for health and well-being, says NAFDAC.
However, findings have shown that short-term effects could include food poisoning, which causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever due to contaminated or adulterated products.
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Additionally, allergic reactions to harmful allergens in counterfeit products can cause hives, itching, and difficulty breathing. Poisoning from counterfeit alcoholic beverages containing toxic substances can cause confusion and loss of coordination.
Long-term effects can involve liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver failure from prolonged consumption of counterfeit alcohol.
Kidney damage and disease or failure can also occur due to harmful adulterants.
Caution
In light of the recent seizures, the agency highlighted the importance of surveillance to protect the public and asked consumers to be especially cautious when purchasing products.
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It also advised consumers to be on high alert for suspicious products and report any concerns to the nearest NAFDAC office immediately, noting that this swift action will enable the agency to take immediate action to protect the public.
About NAFDAC
NAFDAC, established in 1993, has the responsibility of ensuring the safety, quality and effectiveness of food, medicines, cosmetics, medical devices and other regulated products.
The agency aims to safeguard public health by ensuring that all regulated products are safe, effective and of good quality.
Its activities include the implementation of standards and guidelines, inspection and monitoring of manufacturing facilities, laboratory testing and analysis, and registration and licensing of products and facilities.