The Federal Government has announced a plan to curb food contamination and unsafe processing methods, citing an estimated 50 million cases of foodborne illness and 53,000 related deaths in Nigeria.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Dr Kingsley Udeh disclosed the measures at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said the government would tighten enforcement, involve food science professionals, encourage the use of new technologies and improve food packaging as part of efforts to address the public health challenge.
The plan also provides for coordination among regulatory agencies, a stakeholders’ conference and the adoption of a food safety procedure manual developed by the Nigerian Council of Food Science and Technology.
Udeh said his ministry would work with the Ministry of Justice and the Attorney-General of the Federation to prosecute those involved in food contamination and adulteration.
He added that offenders convicted under the relevant provisions would face prison terms ranging from six months to two years.
