Packaged water only fit for consumption within two months of production – NAFDAC

Tayo AFOLABI

The National Agency for Food Drug and Administration, NAFDAC, says packaged water is only fit for consumption within two months of production.

Kaduna state coordinator of the agency, Nasiru Mato, who sated this in Kaduna, emphasized that NAFDAC will intensify efforts at tackling issues of substandard packaged water in Kaduna.

Mato went further, “We have observed some packaged water carelessly sold in the market disregards basic good manufacturing practices required to guarantee quality packaging.

“Those who do not comply with the specifications will not be allowed to toy around with the health of consumers”.

He added that the agency would continue its surveillance and routine checks to ensure adherence by packaged water manufacturers in the state and advised residents to only drink packaged water that had a label and date on them.

The coordinator pointed out that the agency’s continuous efforts at updating manufacturers on critical aspects of good manufacturing and sanitation had been very useful in making them maintain standards.

“We will also remain steadfast in advising the manufacturers on post-production handling of the products,” he said.

He added that the rise in temperature in the country, because of the impending dry season, could mean more demand for water in the coming days and therefore assured that the agencywould intensify its monitoring to ensure hygienic packaged water for citizens to consume.

“NAFDAC in Kaduna will continue to work around the clock to ensure that manufacturers of regulated products in the state do their businesses in compliance with laid down standards, procedures and requirements.

“If there are any major or critical lapses and violations, then we will have no option but to apply the appropriate sanctions,” he said.