In a decisive move, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has officially banned the production of alcoholic beverages in sachets less than 200ml.
The enforcement of this prohibition commenced on February 1, 2024, following the expiration of the five-year window granted to manufacturers to cease the production of such drinks in sachets and pet bottles, starting from 2018.
Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, addressed the media in Abuja on Monday, highlighting that the ban was not a sudden development but a phased decision.
A multilateral committee, consisting of the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and industry representatives, agreed on the gradual reduction of production by 50% in 2020, leading to an outright ban on January 31, 2024.
The primary reason cited for wiping out alcoholic drinks in sachets is their negative impact on underage children.
These pocket-friendly sizes make them accessible and affordable, leading children to fall prey to the packages, ultimately facing consequences in the future.
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Prof Adeyeye emphasized that the decision prioritizes the future of the country over other considerations. Protecting Nigerian children and the health of society at large is paramount. The ban is especially targeted at mitigating the risks posed to underage individuals and commercial vehicle drivers and riders.
The Director-General emphasized that compliance with the ban is crucial, as the future of the country supersedes other considerations. Manufacturers found to be in violation of the ban may face prosecution and other statutory measures.
The enforcement of the ban aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasizing the link between harmful alcohol consumption and various health and social issues. WHO recommends regulatory actions, including restrictions on marketing alcoholic beverages, especially to younger people, and controlling the availability of alcohol.
In light of the ban, manufacturers still engaged in the production of prohibited products will face severe consequences, and NAFDAC is determined to employ all statutory means, including prosecution, to address non-compliance.
Prof Adeyeye concluded by urging holders of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET and glass bottles, as well as related packaging materials, to report to NAFDAC for proper disposal, preventing stricter measures, including prosecution. NAFDAC remains committed to implementing regulations and measures to safeguard the health of Nigerians, particularly vulnerable youth, against the dangers of reckless alcohol consumption.
