Stakeholders in the palm oil industry and consumers have expressed concern over the alleged circulation of adulterated palm oil in markets across the country.
Investigations showed that this practice, though not new in the country has become a common place in the last few months, due to the current economic downturn, as many Nigerians seek cheap alternatives to what they consume.
Reports have it that the producers and some dealers have formed the habit of diluting original palm oil with substances for excessive profits at the expense of unsuspecting buyers.
Information revealed that those in this habit now mix colourant with water and then, add it to original palm oil to increase its redness, creating the impression that it is better in quality, good looking and attracting, compared to the unadulterated palm oil.
Further checks, revealed that its demand is increasing, majorly due to its rich colour and attractiveness, and coupled with the fact that it is more pocket-friendly and affordable to all categories of Nigerians, as the price of the original product kept increasing.
It was learnt that the price of palm oil has jumped by 120 per cent in one year due to the rising industrial demand and low supply, jerking up the price.
Based on market survey, the price of a five-litre gallon of palm oil sold between N5, 000 and N5,500 in November 2023, has jumped to between N11,000 and N11,500, while the price of a 10-litre keg increased from N10,000 to N23,000 at the same period.
NAFDAC confirmed that the adulterated palm oil samples tested contained dye, which is capable of causing cancer when deposited in human body.
A palm oil dealer based in Wasinmi, Ogun State, who confirmed the development, said the sharp practices is affecting patronage of open markets by consumers, as the adulterated palm oil is difficult to detect.
“Considering its look, the adulterated palm oil is more attractive and good looking, but it is when it being cooked that consumers will detect the floating of the dyes and other elements injected into it to make it attractive. Aside the taste, it makes the soup or stew to be red like blood. It makes the food nauseating.
“There are other types that bring out offensive odour during cooking. This adulterated oil is everywhere now and may be difficult for unsuspecting buyers to identify.
