NAFDAC clarifies it doesn't regulate fresh fruits like apples, oranges - Ministry of Agriculture does
NAFDAC Director General Mojisola Adeyeye clarified that the agency does not regulate fresh farm produce like apples, oranges, and yams, stating these fall under the Ministry of Agriculture's jurisdiction during a Channels Television interview earlier this week. She explained that NAFDAC's authority covers semi-processed products such as fufu and processed juices, not naturally grown foods straight from the farm.
This clarification addresses public confusion following former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's viral video where he reported his wife experienced headaches after consuming fresh juice, raising concerns about food safety standards. Adeyeye emphasized inter-agency cooperation, noting that while farm produce isn't NAFDAC's direct responsibility, it becomes their concern when processed for consumption.
Understanding this regulatory division helps consumers know where to direct food safety concerns: fresh fruits and vegetables should be reported to the Ministry of Agriculture, while processed food issues belong to NAFDAC. The DG stressed that both agencies should work together rather than operate in silos to ensure comprehensive food safety from farm to table.