Adulterated palm oil on sale in Lagos markets, LASCOPA alerts consumers

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has alerted that artificially enhanced palm oil are being sold to unsuspecting consumers by some unscrupulous traders in markets across the state.

The General Manager of LASCOPA Afolabi Solebo revealed this in a statement on Thursday while warning consumers to be vigilant while purchasing palm oil in markets across the state.

Solebo said complaints and market surveillance activities by the agency revealed presence of adulterated palm oil being sold to unsuspecting consumers by some unscrupulous traders seeking to maximise profits at the expense of public health and consumer safety.

Solebo said the Agency had sealed a shop sale selling adulterated palm oil along Idutafa Lane off Oluwa Street near Amodu Tijani Oluwa Mosque, Lagos Island in Lagos Island Local Government Area, Lagos State.
According to the LASCOPA boss, the adulterated palm oil may contain harmful substances such as candle wax, chemicals, dyes, and impurities which cannot be digested by the body.

He added that consumption of the adulterated palm oil may lead to serious health complications, including food poisoning, stomach disorders, tissue and liver damage, and other long-term health risks.

On how to identify adulterated oil, Solebo advised consumers to carefully examine palm oil before purchase by checking for unusual colour, offensive odour, excessive thickness, sediments, or any suspicious appearance that may indicate contamination or adulteration.

“Consumers are also encouraged to patronise only trusted and reputable vendors while demanding quality and safe products at all times,” said the LASCOPA boss.

He warned traders and distributors engaging in the sale of adulterated palm oil to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law guiding consumer protection in Lagos State.

The Agency further urged members of the public to promptly report cases of suspected adulterated food products, deceptive trade practices, or consumer rights violations through its official communication channels for necessary investigation and enforcement action.

“LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous market monitoring, consumer sensitisation, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure that residents have access to safe, wholesome, and quality products across Lagos State,” he said.