Health and Wellness

NAFDAC Shuts Down 250 Factories Producing Fake Hennessy, Coca-Cola in Abia

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has taken decisive action by shutting down 250 factories involved in producing counterfeit food and beverages in Aba, Abia State. The operation, dubbed Operation Clean Up Aba, resulted in the discovery of over ₦5 billion worth of fake products, including popular brands like Hennessy, Coca-Cola, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.

Cemetery Market, located in Aba, has long been known as a hotspot for the production of counterfeit alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food items. NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market,” emphasizing its importance in protecting public health and eliminating substandard products from the Nigerian market.

The operation uncovered more than 240 makeshift factories, where counterfeit products were manufactured under unsanitary conditions. These illegal factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to produce fake versions of well-known brands. Among the fake products seized were Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.

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“These criminal elements use unhygienic sources of water, saccharin, colouring agents, and harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption,” Adeyeye explained. “The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes.”

The operation led to the destruction of over 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products, with a total street value of ₦5 billion. Additionally, three warehouses were discovered stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation.

NAFDAC expressed its gratitude to the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for its support during the operation. The agency also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office, stressing its commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation’s food and beverage supply.

“The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” Adeyeye said. “We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products.”

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