NAFDAC Chief Sounds Alarm on Hidden Dangers in Packaged Foods: Why Reading Labels Could Save Lives

Abuja Nigeria’s top food safety regulator has issued a stark warning to consumers: the packaged foods lining supermarket shelves may be silently fueling a public health crisis. Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, told Nigerians on Friday that failing to read food labels could have life threatening consequences. With non communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease on the rise, Adeyeye said the simple act of checking nutritional information before purchase could be a critical first line of defense against preventable illness. The call comes as health experts observe a troubling shift in Nigeria’s disease burden. Once dominated by infectious diseases, the country now faces a growing epidemic of diet related conditions. Packaged foods, often marketed as convenient or modern, frequently contain excessive amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, ingredients linked to chronic health problems. Yet many consumers remain unaware of what they are actually eating, or the long term risks these products may pose.

What Happened

During a public address in Abuja, NAFDAC Director General Professor Mojisola Adeyeye emphasized the urgent need for consumers to become more vigilant about food choices. She highlighted that many packaged foods contain hidden ingredients that contribute to poor health outcomes, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Adeyeye’s statement reflects growing concern among public health officials about the rapid dietary transition occurring in Nigeria, where traditional diets are increasingly being replaced by processed, high calorie, low nutrient foods.

Why Public Health Officials Are Concerned

Non communicable diseases now account for a significant and rising proportion of deaths in Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization, these conditions, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, are responsible for over 30% of all deaths in the country. Poor diet is a major risk factor, and packaged foods are a key contributor. Many products marketed as healthy or convenient contain excessive sodium, added sugars, and trans fats, which are known to increase the risk of chronic illness. Without clear label reading, consumers may unknowingly consume harmful levels of these ingredients over time.

What to Look for on Food Labels

Reading food labels can be confusing, but experts say focusing on a few key elements can make a significant difference. Consumers should check:

• The ingredient list: Ingredients are listed in order of quantity, so those appearing first are present in the largest amounts.
• Nutritional information: Pay attention to serving size, calories, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, total sugars, and added sugars.
• Daily value percentages: These indicate how much of a nutrient one serving provides in relation to the recommended daily intake.
• Claims like “low fat,” “sugar free,” or “natural”: These can be misleading. Always verify the actual nutritional content.

NAFDAC has also warned against products with incomplete or missing labels, as these may not meet regulatory standards and could pose additional health risks.

Who May Be Affected

While all consumers are at risk, certain groups are particularly vulnerable. Children and adolescents, who are frequent consumers of packaged snacks and beverages, face long term health consequences from poor dietary habits. Low income households, which may rely more on affordable processed foods, are also disproportionately affected. Additionally, individuals with pre existing conditions such as hypertension or diabetes must be especially cautious, as excessive salt or sugar intake can worsen their health.

Government Response and Public Health Initiatives

NAFDAC has been working to strengthen food safety regulations and improve labeling standards. The agency has introduced guidelines requiring clearer nutritional information on packaged foods and has conducted public awareness campaigns to educate consumers. However, enforcement remains a challenge, particularly in informal markets where unregulated products are often sold. Adeyeye called for greater collaboration between government agencies, food manufacturers, and civil society to promote healthier food environments.

Prevention and Safety Guidance

Public health experts recommend several steps to reduce the risks associated with packaged foods:

• Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• When buying packaged foods, compare labels and choose products with lower sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Limit consumption of sugary drinks, instant noodles, processed meats, and snacks high in trans fats.
• Cook meals at home whenever possible to have better control over ingredients and portion sizes.
• Educate children and family members about the importance of healthy eating habits.

What Readers Should Know

The rise in non communicable diseases is not inevitable. Small changes in daily habits, such as reading food labels and making informed choices, can significantly reduce health risks. While government regulation plays a critical role, individual awareness and action are equally important. As Nigeria continues to grapple with the double burden of infectious and chronic diseases, the choices consumers make today will shape the nation’s health for decades to come.

Key Takeaways

• Non communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease are rising in Nigeria, driven in part by unhealthy packaged foods.
• Reading food labels can help consumers avoid hidden sugars, salts, and unhealthy fats linked to chronic illness.
• NAFDAC urges Nigerians to check ingredient lists, nutritional information, and daily value percentages before purchasing packaged foods.
• Children, low income households, and individuals with pre existing conditions are at higher risk from poor dietary choices.
• Prevention starts with informed choices: prioritize whole foods, limit processed snacks, and cook at home when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are packaged foods considered unhealthy?

Many packaged foods contain high levels of added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats, which are linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These ingredients are often used to enhance flavor, texture, or shelf life but can have negative health effects when consumed in excess.

What should I look for when reading a food label?

Focus on the ingredient list, serving size, calories, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, total sugars, and added sugars. Also, check the daily value percentages to understand how much of a nutrient one serving provides relative to the recommended daily intake.

Are all packaged foods bad for health?

Not all packaged foods are unhealthy. Some products, such as canned beans, frozen vegetables, or whole grain pasta, can be nutritious. The key is to read labels and choose options with minimal added sugars, salts, and unhealthy fats.

What are some healthier alternatives to packaged snacks?

Healthier alternatives include fresh fruits, nuts, yogurt, whole grain crackers, and homemade snacks like roasted chickpeas or vegetable sticks with hummus. These options are typically lower in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

How can I encourage my family to eat healthier?

Start by setting a good example. Involve family members in meal planning and cooking, and educate them about the benefits of whole foods. Gradually replace unhealthy snacks with healthier options, and make nutritious foods more accessible at home.

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Medical Review: MedSense Editorial Board