The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has convened a stakeholder engagement on the Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026, as part of efforts to tackle the rising incidence of diet-related non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.
The initiative targets excessive sodium consumption, a major risk factor linked to hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke, and aligns with global best practices aimed at improving public health outcomes.
The proposed regulations seek to establish maximum sodium limits across selected categories of processed and pre-packaged foods, promote clear and transparent labelling, and encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products.
NAFDAC noted that the intervention responds to evolving dietary patterns and the increasing consumption of processed foods, which have contributed to higher sodium intake among Nigerians. The agency emphasised that the regulations are designed to support informed consumer choices while strengthening the country’s food safety framework.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, highlighted the importance of collaboration in ensuring effective implementation. She stressed that industry stakeholders, public health experts, and consumer groups must work together to achieve compliance and long-term sustainability.
Adeyeye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to evidence-based and inclusive regulatory processes, noting that the initiative represents a significant step toward promoting healthier diets, preventing avoidable diseases, and improving the overall well-being of Nigerians.
