Unregulated ‘White Maggi’ Seasoning Floods Northern Markets as Authorities Fail to Enforce Ban
An alarming influx of unregistered food additives, particularly industrial-grade monosodium glutamate (MSG) known locally as “white maggi,” has overtaken markets in northern Nigeria, with traders openly selling the product despite existing food safety regulations.
Investigations reveal that the product—meant strictly for industrial use—is being widely consumed by the public, especially in markets like Singer in Kano and Funtua Central Market in Katsina. The seasoning is sold in bulk and smaller units, with traders confirming its steady importation from China via Lagos, and redistribution across states such as Kaduna, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
Despite earlier promises of intervention by regulatory agencies like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), enforcement appears nonexistent. Over two years after the initial exposure of the practice, dealers still operate freely.
In a recent visit to the Singer Market, a major dealer, Muhammad Mai Maggi, disclosed that the product is being offloaded by the truckload weekly. “No government agency has stopped us. We sell openly,” he said.
Health experts warn that industrial-grade MSG—often unlabelled and sold without quality checks—poses serious health risks, including high blood pressure due to its high sodium content.
Crumbled seasoning cubes, known in Hausa as garin maggi, are also sold discreetly, as they are considered factory waste and unfit for public consumption. These are hidden in shops and brought out only upon request.
Despite repeated vows from NAFDAC and the FCCPC to clamp down on illegal food products, traders say they’ve never been approached or warned by any enforcement agency. Consumers, driven by economic hardship and high inflation, continue to purchase the cheaper alternative in large quantities.
Traders interviewed in Katsina confirmed they receive their supplies from Kano. “People know it’s cheaper, and that’s why it sells,” said Yusuf Sani, a vendor in Funtua Market.
In response to fresh inquiries, the FCCPC said the identified markets have been noted and enforcement actions would soon follow. “The Commission is committed to ensuring public safety and protecting consumer welfare,” it said.
However, until decisive action is taken, unsafe food products will continue to circulate unchecked, endangering millions of Nigerians.
