How to Spot Fake or Adulterated Palm Oil in Nigerian Markets
A recent Punch newspaper investigation reveals a growing public health concern: adulterated palm oil is now widespread in major Nigerian markets . Traders in cities like Lagos have been mixing genuine palm oil with water, industrial dyes and harmful chemicals to increase profit margins. According to the report, these chemicals—including Sudan and azo dyes, which are banned as food colourants in many countries—pose serious health risks , including organ damage and increased cancer risk. The practice has been observed openly in markets such as Otto Market and Mile 12, where sellers admit that dye-treated oil is common and often sold as “premium” palm oil. Experts warn that consumers must exercise caution and learn how to tell real palm oil from adulterated products. Why This Matters Palm oil is a staple in Nigerian cooking—from ofada stew to efo riro —and is expected to have a rich, reddish-orange colour and distinct aroma. However, the addition of industrial dyes and chemicals t...