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By Doris Obinna
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cleared Food & Food Integrated Company Limited, producers of BON Bread, of allegations that the company used harmful substances to artificially prolong the shelf life of its bread products after a viral social media complaint sparked widespread public concern.
The controversy began on April 13, 2026, when an internet blogger alleged on social media that a loaf of bread supplied to her for sale had remained without mould for more than two months. Although the complainant did not identify the producer of the bread in question, Food & Food Integrated Company Limited later claimed ownership of the product and denied any wrongdoing.
The allegation quickly generated intense debate online, with many Nigerians questioning the safety of bread products sold across the country and expressing fears over the possible use of banned preservatives and harmful additives in baked goods.
In response to the growing public anxiety, NAFDAC, on Sunday, in a statement signed by the Director-General, Prof. Christianah Adeyeye, disclosed that it immediately launched an investigation to determine the authenticity of the claims and provide what it described as “evidence-based scientific proof” to reassure consumers.
According to the agency, investigators from the Greater Federal Capital Territory Directorate inspected the bakery facility operated by Food & Food Integrated Company Limited in Abuja on April 20, 2026.
“During the inspection, officials collected samples of BON Bread and related condiments directly from the production facility, while additional bread samples were simultaneously purchased from the open market for independent laboratory analysis.”
NAFDAC stated that its investigation revealed that the company has been in operation since 2006 and has consistently renewed its product licences without sanctions, recalls, or regulatory penalties. “Laboratory tests carried out on the bread samples showed that the manufacturer used calcium propionate, a preservative commonly permitted in bread production to inhibit mould growth and extend shelf life.”
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The agency said the quantity detected in the analysed samples was within internationally accepted safety limits established under the Codex Alimentarius, the global food standards framework recognised worldwide.
The agency further disclosed that all three sets of BON Bread samples obtained from both the production facility and the open market met regulatory standards and did not contain objectionable substances such as potassium bromate or non-nutritive sweeteners.
NAFDAC emphasised that food manufacturers are legally permitted to apply approved preservation practices aimed at prolonging shelf life, provided such measures comply with established safety standards.
“As a result of the foregoing, the public is hereby informed that the company is not in violation of any of the agency’s regulations,” the statement said.
The agency also used the opportunity to caution members of the public against rushing to social media with allegations concerning regulated products without first reporting such concerns through official channels.
Meanwhile, NAFDAC urged consumers to lodge complaints directly with any of its offices nationwide or through its electronic platforms and newly launched call centre to ensure thorough and discreet investigations.
Industry observers say the incident highlights growing public sensitivity regarding food safety and increasing scrutiny of manufacturers amid rising concerns about preservatives and additives in processed foods.
Adeyeye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to consumer protection and food safety, stressing that all allegations relating to regulated products would continue to receive prompt scientific investigation to safeguard public health and maintain confidence in the nation’s food supply chain.
