… as Anambra State Govt begins seizure of expired goods, investigates disposal practices
The Director of Environmental Health and Pollution Control Department in the Anambra State Ministry of Environment ministry, Mrs Lucy Nwankwo, has stated that the presence of expired goods in markets is not just a violation of consumer trust, but also a potential hazard to public health and the environment.
Speaking when the ministry began a widespread check and seizures of expired goods and items in the capital city, which was in reaction to growing concerns over the potential health risks and environmental impacts associated with such goods and improper disposal practices, Mrs Nwankwo expressed dismay at the prevalence of expired products in the state.
It was gathered that the exercise marks the end of the road for dealers in expired goods in Awka; as Inspectors from the ministry visited numerous retail establishments, including supermarkets, pharmacies, and local markets; to inspect, verify, and seize expired products.
During the exercise, the team made alarming discoveries of expired food products, medications, and cosmetics, according to sources, adding that these findings raise serious concerns regarding adherence to environmental regulations and the impact of these practices on public health and safety.
Mrs Nwankwo revealed that the seized goods, including expired food items, medicines, and cosmetics, were documented and removed to prevent them from being sold or improperly discarded.
She emphasized the need to ramp up public awareness campaigns to spread knowledge about responsible disposal methods and the consequences of non-compliance, and called on all consumers to always check the expiration dates on product containers before making purchases.
For an Environmental Health ofyficer, Mrs. Tessy Nwafor, the ministry is set to enhance the regulatory framework for managing the shelf life of products and enforcing compliance through stricter penalties for violations, urging the public to always report cases of any individual selling expired products to the nearest local government authority around.
She warned that businesses found to be in violation of environmental guidelines will face heavy penalties and potential closure orders, saying that the Anambra State Ministry of Environment has intensified its crackdown on non-compliance.
“The Ministry has committed to keeping the public informed of its findings and actions, reaffirming its dedication to safeguarding the environment and the well-being of the citizens of Anambra State”, she concluded