By AMINU DALHATU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The Zamfara State Environmental Protection and Enforcement Agency (ZEPEA) has confiscated a large quantity of expired and suspected unwholesome Maggi seasoning products during a routine inspection of warehouses and retail outlets in Gusau Old Market.
The Executive Chairman of ZEPEA, Alhaji Muhammad Zangina Abdullahi, who was represented by the Director of Inspectorate and Enforcement, Alhaji Muhammad Saleh, led the enforcement exercise aimed at protecting public health and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Aliyu, the inspection uncovered sacks and containers of Maggi seasoning that had allegedly been removed from their original packaging and repackaged for resale.
The statement adds that, the operation also led to the discovery of other food items suspected to be unfit for human consumption and not in compliance with established food safety standards.
The Agency said the exercise was part of the Zamfara State Government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public health by preventing the circulation and sale of expired, contaminated and substandard food products.
It warned that, the consumption of such products could expose consumers to serious health risks, including food poisoning, stomach-related illnesses and other food-borne diseases.
The ZEPEA Chairman cautioned traders and business owners against the sale of expired or deteriorated food items and urged them to adhere strictly to approved food storage and marketing standards.
He stressed that anyone found violating the relevant environmental and food safety regulations would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Agency also appealed to residents to remain vigilant by checking the expiry dates and quality of food products before making purchases and to report any individual or business suspected of selling expired or unsafe food items to the appropriate authorities.
