Nigeria takes bold regulatory action to eliminate industrial trans fats, aligning with global health standards and paving the way for a healthier future.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has inaugurated a comprehensive Strategy and Roadmap for Trans-Fatty Acid (TFA) regulation in Nigeria — a decisive move to strengthen food safety and public health, and a true game-changer for the nation’s wellness landscape.
This is contained in a statement released Sunday in Abuja by NAFDAC’s resident media consultant, Mr Olusayo Akintola, who described the initiative as a milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against unhealthy dietary risks.
The statement emphasised that the inauguration reaffirmed NAFDAC’s dedication to protecting citizens from dangerous dietary components associated with heart disease, stroke, and premature death through stronger regulations and improved enforcement mechanisms.
Quoting NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the statement noted that Nigeria had taken bold action by setting a limit of not more than 2 grams of industrially produced trans fats per 100 grams.
Adeyeye explained that the World Health Organisation (WHO) recognised Nigeria in 2023 as one of seven countries worldwide implementing best-practice trans-fat elimination policies aimed at safeguarding population health and promoting longevity.
What Are Trans Fats?
Trans fats (or trans-fatty acids) are a type of unsaturated fat that’s artificially produced during food processing — especially in hydrogenated oils used in baked goods, snacks, margarine, and fried foods.
Health experts discourage the use of trans fats because they raise bad cholesterol (LDL). They also lower good cholesterol (HDL), increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, and contribute to inflammation and obesity.
Why This Strategy Matters
NAFDAC’s new regulation sets a legal threshold of industrial trans fats at no more than 2% of total fat content in food products — a move that aligns Nigeria with WHO best practices.
Key Benefits for Nigerians
Healthier Lives: Reduces risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death — especially in low-income communities where processed foods are common.
Food Industry Reform: Encourages manufacturers to switch to safer oils and improve product quality.
Global Recognition: Nigeria joins a select group of countries leading the fight against diet-related illnesses.
Consumer Awareness: Public education campaigns will empower Nigerians to make healthier food choices.
Economic Impact: Healthier citizens mean lower healthcare costs and increased productivity.
What’s in the Roadmap?
This initiative is part of NAFDAC’s phased strategy, which includes reformulating food products to eliminate trans fats; expanding lab capacity to detect trans fats; and monitoring compliance across the food industry.
NAFDAC is poised to educate the public and train stakeholders while collaborating with WHO, Resolve to Save Lives, and civil society.
Global Context
The WHO aims to eliminate industrial trans fats globally by 2030. Nigeria’s leadership in this space positions it as a regional model for food safety and nutrition policy.
What Nigerians Can Do
Nigerians are urged to always read food labels and avoid products containing “partially hydrogenated oils”. Citizens are advised to patronise and support local brands that commit to trans fat-free products.
Furthermore, they are to advocate for healthier school meals and public food programs, and to stay informed through NAFDAC’s public education efforts.