Reps Reverse NAFDAC’s Ban: Sachet Alcoholic Drinks Allowed Temporarily Amidst Investigation

Reps Reverse NAFDAC’s Ban: Sachet Alcoholic Drinks Allowed Temporarily Amidst Investigation

In a significant development, the House of Representatives Committee on the National Agency on Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intervened, ordering a temporary suspension of the ban on the sale of spirits and alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles pending further investigation…..READ ALSO NAFDAC Warns Against Fake Paracetamol Injection Threatens Nigeria’s Health Security

Chairperson of the House Committee on NAFDAC, Regina Akume, announced the decision in Abuja, emphasizing the need for proper procedures and access control measures to be followed before imposing such bans. The decision came after a public hearing conducted by the committee on the ban of these products.

Akume stressed the importance of balancing public safety concerns with economic considerations, pledging to ensure fairness between NAFDAC and manufacturers while safeguarding vulnerable populations.

Director General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, reiterated that the initial ban aimed to protect children and young individuals from the dangers posed by easy access to alcoholic beverages in sachets and pet bottles. However, she clarified that the ban was not solely NAFDAC’s decision but a ministerial directive, with the five-year moratorium period having expired.

Adeyeye expressed surprise at the manufacturers’ resistance to the ban despite the agreed-upon phase-out period. She reiterated NAFDAC’s stance on regulating packaging to prevent easy access to alcohol by children, affirming that the agency supports responsible production and consumption practices.

The decision to temporarily lift the ban reflects a nuanced approach by the House Committee, balancing public health concerns with economic interests and the need for thorough investigation before implementing sweeping regulatory measures.