Amidst concerns over the quality of palm oil in Nigeria, Professor Kehinde Owolarafe of Obafemi Awolowo University, Department of Agriculture and Environmental Engineering, has sounded a clarion call, warning producers, distributors, marketers, and retailers against the perilous practice of adulteration.
At a recent workshop organized by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in Osogbo, Osun State, Owolarafe underscored the potential health hazards posed by adulterated palm oil.
Highlighting the historical significance of Nigeria in palm oil production, Owolarafe lamented the country’s decline from a leading producer to the fifth position globally, trailing behind Indonesia and Malaysia.
Despite an increase in local production, Nigeria still imports approximately one million metric tonnes of palm oil to meet domestic demand.
Factors contributing to Nigeria’s dwindling palm oil production include aging oil palm plantations, inadequate processing technologies, and unfavorable government policies towards agriculture.
Owolarafe urged industry stakeholders to prioritize improving both the quality and quantity of palm oil production to meet international standards and revitalize the sector.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, represented by SON’s Southwest Director, Ethan Talatu, emphasized the workshop’s aim to raise awareness among stakeholders regarding the importance of adhering to government-set standards.
The event sought to instill a collective commitment to producing palm oil that meets stringent quality criteria.
Amidst growing concerns over the health implications of consuming adulterated palm oil, stakeholders are urged to heed Owolarafe’s warning and prioritize quality assurance measures.
Ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s palm oil supply chain is not only essential for public health but also crucial for revitalizing the nation’s palm oil industry on the global stage.