Customs comptroller advises nigerians to be cautious of buying expired rice
A timely warning!
According to a report by Vanguard, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), has advised Nigerians to be cautious when buying rice, warning that many bags of rice being sold in the country are expired.
Ali made this statement during a meeting with stakeholders in the rice industry, where he expressed concern over the proliferation of expired rice in the market. He urged Nigerians to verify the expiration dates of rice before purchasing them to avoid consuming spoiled or rotten rice.
The Customs Comptroller-General also warned that the NCS would not hesitate to seize and destroy any expired or rotten rice found in the country, as it poses a significant health risk to consumers.
This warning is particularly important, as expired rice can lead to foodborne illnesses, including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In severe cases, consuming expired rice can even cause life-threatening conditions.
To avoid falling victim to expired rice, Nigerians are advised to:
- Check the expiration date on the bag of rice before purchasing it.
- Verify the authenticity of the rice by checking for any visible signs of spoilage or damage.
- Buy rice from reputable sources, such as licensed rice mills or authorized dealers.
- Report any expired or rotten rice to the relevant authorities, such as the NCS or the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
By being cautious and vigilant, Nigerians can help protect themselves and their families from the risks associated with expired rice.