NAFDAC Urges Businesses to Uphold Accurate Branding Standards

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has called on Nigerian businesses to prioritize accurate branding and labeling of their products. The agency emphasized the importance of clear and truthful product information to protect consumers and enhance market credibility.

Key Directives

At a recent stakeholder engagement in Lagos, NAFDAC outlined specific guidelines businesses must adhere to:

1. **Clear Labeling**: All product labels must accurately reflect the ingredients, usage instructions, and expiration dates. Misleading claims could result in regulatory sanctions.
2. **Compliance with Standards**: Companies must ensure that their products meet NAFDAC’s safety and quality standards before they are released to the market.
3. **Traceability**: Proper branding aids in identifying and recalling defective or harmful products efficiently.

The Impact of Misbranding

NAFDAC warned that misbranding not only puts consumers at risk but also tarnishes the reputation of businesses. According to NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, “Branding is more than a marketing strategy; it’s a commitment to quality and transparency. Misleading branding undermines consumer trust and endangers public health.”

### Benefits of Compliance

Businesses that adhere to NAFDAC’s branding regulations stand to gain:

– **Enhanced Consumer Trust**: Accurate branding builds credibility and strengthens consumer loyalty.
– **Market Access**: Properly labeled and certified products are more likely to penetrate local and international markets.
– **Regulatory Support**: Compliant businesses avoid penalties and enjoy smoother relations with regulatory bodies.

### Support for Businesses

NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to assisting businesses in achieving compliance. The agency offers workshops, guidelines, and consultations to help manufacturers and distributors align with regulatory standards.

### Collaborative Efforts

Prof. Adeyeye called on industry associations to sensitize their members about the importance of accurate branding. She also urged consumers to report products with misleading or incomplete labels to NAFDAC’s hotline for prompt action.

### Conclusion

Accurate branding is a win-win for businesses and consumers, fostering trust and ensuring safety. NAFDAC’s renewed focus on this critical aspect underscores its dedication to protecting public health and promoting ethical business practices in Nigeria.