The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a safety alert following reports that Chad has banned certain Bledine Infant Cereals due to contamination concerns.
The affected cereals are produced by Danone Group, the French multinational food and beverage company. The categories identified include 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.
According to reports received by NAFDAC, Chadian authorities imposed the ban after laboratory tests showed the cereals failed to meet European safety standards for Aflatoxin B1, a carcinogenic toxin that can contaminate agricultural products.
NAFDAC noted that the affected batches are already circulating in Nigeria, particularly in border communities adjoining Chad, raising concerns about the safety of infant food sold locally.
The agency explained that Aflatoxin B1 is a potent carcinogen and immunotoxin capable of causing serious immune system disorders in infants and young children.
In response, NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct market surveillance and remove any affected products from retail shops, informal markets, and distribution channels, especially those receiving goods through Nigeria’s border areas.
Healthcare professionals, distributors, retailers, and caregivers have been urged to exercise caution, verify the authenticity and condition of infant food products, and purchase only from licensed and authorized suppliers.
The agency also encouraged consumers and health workers to report any adverse reactions or suspected side effects linked to the affected cereals.
