NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Fake Imported Pur Tomato Paste

•Warns of long-term organ damage from unsafe products

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against buying counterfeit imported Pur tomato paste discovered in large quantities in Onitsha, Anambra State.

The agency said the fake products were circulating in major markets, exposing unsuspecting consumers and retailers to potentially dangerous substances.

According to NAFDAC, investigations revealed that the counterfeiters used a registration number belonging to an unrelated sachet water brand to make the tomato paste appear genuine.

The agency said the discovery followed surveillance operations in Onitsha, where officials found the products being distributed in large volumes.

NAFDAC warned that the counterfeit tomato paste had not undergone the required safety assessments, quality control checks or good manufacturing practice inspections.

It said the products could contain unverified fillers, excessive starch, artificial colouring, preservatives and other adulterants capable of endangering consumers’ health.

The agency listed food poisoning, allergic reactions and long-term organ damage among the potential health consequences of consuming unsafe products.

It urged traders, caterers and households, particularly in the South-East, to exercise caution and avoid trusting products simply because their packaging carries a NAFDAC registration number.

The agency explained that counterfeiters had begun cloning registration numbers to deceive consumers and conceal the true identity of their products.

NAFDAC advised the public to verify registration numbers through its official mobile application, Greenbook, or its website, [www.nafdac.gov.ng](http://www.nafdac.gov.ng).

Consumers can also report suspicious products, shops and distributors to the nearest NAFDAC office or call 0909-763-0506 and 0909-763-0507.

The agency further noted that the Federal Government prohibits the importation of tinned and canned tomato paste to encourage local production and protect domestic manufacturers.

It said foreign-branded canned tomato paste found in circulation was considered smuggled and unregulated.

NAFDAC disclosed that it had commenced mop-up operations in Onitsha and planned to extend surveillance to other markets nationwide.

It added that it would prosecute those found responsible for importing and distributing the counterfeit products.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and preventing smugglers from undermining local tomato paste manufacturers through illegal trade.