Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has taken steps to nip in the bud the unhygienic handling and packaging of powdered milk in the open market to guarantee the safety of consumers.
The General Manager, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, (LASCOPA), Mrs. Kemi Olugbode, in a meeting with manufacturers, marketers and other stakeholders in the sector explained that the State Government had to take proactive steps following series of complaints on poor handling and sales of exposed powdered milk in markets
She said various investigations and research conducted by the Agency revealed a high level of improper handling and storage of the product, ultimately necessitating the stakeholders’ meeting with a view to properly engaging manufacturers of the products towards exploring acceptable and lasting solutions to the problem.
According to Olugbode, a proper guideline and mechanism will be put in place by the government to control the handling and sales of exposed powdered milk by traders in markets and forestall any possible hazards that may result from consumption of such product.
While appealing to manufacturers and producers of the product to fully cooperate with the government in its quest towards protecting consumers in the State, she urged organisations to come up with recommendations to help government initiate acceptable laws and guidelines.
In his contribution, the Secretary to the Board of LASCOPA, Mr. Olajide Oduyebo said a proper understanding and unalloyed cooperation by milk manufacturers in the State would be a reliable yardstick to guide the government towards establishing an acceptable law that is beneficial to the end-users.
Speaking on behalf of the manufacturing companies, Mr. Olumide Soyemi of Friesland Compina WAMPCO, makers of Peak Milk, expressed their willingness to partner fully with government towards realising the set objectives.
