By Adedapo Adesanya
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an alert over the presence of a special batch of Sprite drinks in the market.
In a notice, Public Alert No. 022/2023 – Alert on Unwholesome Sprite 50cl Glass Bottle Batch number AZ6 22:32, seen by this newspaper, the agency notified the public there is a batch of unwholesome Sprite 50cl glass bottles circulating in Nigeria.
It noted that the contaminated product was discovered following a consumer complaint, adding that it has since been investigated by its post-marketing surveillance unit.
“On investigation, at the point of purchase and supplier’s address, over five (5) crates of the implicated batch of Sprite 50cl glass bottles were discovered to be contaminated with particles,” it stated.
The affected batch of the product has been sampled for laboratory analysis in the NAFDAC laboratory, and the agency has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to carry out surveillance and mop up the implicated batch of the unwholesome product.
NAFDAC added that a comprehensive current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) Inspection of the manufacturing site is to be carried out by the agency.
Explaining the rationale, it said it would help find the root cause of the contamination and ensure compliance with marketing authorisation.
“Furthermore, the company, (Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (Abuja plant), has been directed to recall the implicated batch of the unwholesome product and report to NAFDAC for effective monitoring,” NAFDAC said in the notice.
Extra information issued showed that the contested product was manufactured on April 18, 2023, and has an expiration date of April 18, 2024.
NAFDAC also called on distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance to avoid the consumption, sale, or distribution of unwholesome product.
“The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.”
It also called on anyone in possession of the above-mentioned batch of Sprite 50cl glass bottles is advised to submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
“If you, or someone you know, have consumed this product or suffered any adverse reaction/event after consumption, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicion of distribution and sale of unwholesome packaged food products to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: [email protected].
“Similarly, consumers are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the consumption of unwholesome packaged food products to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application available for download on android and IOS stores or via e-mail on [email protected].”
