Oyo Government Enforces Ban On Styrofoam And Related Materials

Oyo Government Enforces Ban On Styrofoam And Related Materials

The Oyo State government has implemented a ban on the use of styrofoam for food services, storage, and other related purposes, following a directive from the state House of Assembly urging the government to take action……READ ALSO Breaking News: Butchers In Oyo State Brace For Meat Price Increasement, Urging Government Support

In response to this directive, the government has established the Food Safety Compliance Enforcement Task Force, charged with enforcing food safety regulations across the state. The announcement was made by the state Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, during the Food Safety Stakeholders Forum and the inauguration of the task force.

Ajetunmobi emphasized that the prohibition of styrofoam is a crucial step toward maintaining food safety standards in Oyo State. He highlighted the risks associated with food poisoning and other sharp practices in the food industry, stressing the need for preventive measures to safeguard public health.

The task force is mandated to raise awareness among food industry stakeholders about the importance of adhering to food safety standards. Additionally, Afusat Akande, the ministry’s director of food, water, and laboratory services, outlined the criteria that must be met by those involved in the food supply chain to obtain certification, including regular medical fitness certificates and routine fumigation of production facilities.

The permanent secretary and head of the task force, Akintunde Ayinde, assured collaboration with the ministry to achieve its objectives. The task force comprises individuals from various organizations, including the state Food Safety Management Committee, the Nigeria Police Force, and associations representing table water producers and canteen workers.

This move by the Oyo State government aligns with similar initiatives in other states like Lagos and Abia, where bans on styrofoam and single-use plastics have been enforced to promote environmental sustainability and public health.