The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning about Bledine Infant Cereals, following reports that Chad has banned the products due to contamination concerns. The cereals, produced by the French multinational Danone Group, are widely used across West Africa.
NAFDAC identified the affected products as Bledine Cereals Saveur Biscuit, Bledine Saveur Biscuit & Lait, Bledine Miel & Lait, and Bledine Banane & Lait, with expiry dates ranging from September 2026 to March 2027. Chad’s ban reportedly stems from the cereals failing to meet European safety standards for Aflatoxin B1, a carcinogenic toxin that can pose serious health risks, particularly to infants and young children.
According to NAFDAC, some of the contaminated batches are already circulating in Nigeria, especially in border communities near Chad. “Assessments have shown that affected batches are present in Nigeria, raising concerns about the safety of infant food sold in local markets,” the agency said.
Aflatoxin B1 is a potent carcinogen and immunotoxin, capable of causing severe immune system disorders in children. In light of this, NAFDAC has instructed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct immediate market surveillance. The directive covers retail shops, informal markets, and distribution networks that may have received the affected products through cross-border channels.
Healthcare professionals, distributors, retailers, and caregivers have been urged to exercise extreme caution. The agency stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity and physical condition of all infant foods, and to ensure purchases are made only from licensed and authorised suppliers.
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Consumers and health workers are encouraged to report any adverse reactions or suspected side effects linked to the cereals. NAFDAC’s alert underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring imported and locally distributed infant foods, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring product safety across regional markets.
By taking these measures, the agency aims to protect children from the potentially life-threatening effects of contaminated foods and to prevent further distribution of affected products. Parents and caregivers are urged to stay informed, check product labels carefully, and follow guidance from licensed suppliers and healthcare professionals.