Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ezekiel Oyero
Published on 2024-03-11 18:54:06
The Oyo State Government has taken a significant step in promoting food safety and environmental sustainability by banning the use of Styrofoam for food packaging, storage, and other purposes within the state. This decision was announced by the state Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, during the Food Safety Stakeholders Forum where a task force was inaugurated to oversee the enforcement of this ban.
This move aligns with the efforts of the Lagos State government, which had previously initiated a ban on Styrofoam and other single-use plastics. The Oyo State House of Assembly also lent its support by urging the government to implement the ban and establishing the Food Safety Compliance Enforcement Task Force to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Mrs. Ajetunmobi emphasized the importance of upholding food safety standards to address the growing concern of food poisoning and other health risks associated with the use of harmful chemicals in food production and packaging. The task force will play a crucial role in educating food producers and other stakeholders on the significance of adhering to these standards to protect public health.
In addition to the ban on Styrofoam, the Directorate of Food, Water, and Laboratory Services will regulate food businesses in the state to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for consumption. Efforts will be doubled to monitor and inspect food premises to prevent any violations of food safety regulations.
The task force, led by Mr. Akintunde Ayinde, includes members from various organizations such as the state Food Safety Management Committee, the Nigeria Police Force, the Association of Table Water Producers, and the Association of Canteen Workers. This collaborative approach aims to achieve the government’s objective of enforcing food safety measures effectively.
The importance of preventive measures in ensuring public health was highlighted, emphasizing that adherence to food safety standards can help save lives. By supporting initiatives like the ban on Styrofoam and promoting awareness around food safety, the government aims to create a safer and healthier environment for its residents.
In conclusion, the Oyo State Government’s decision to ban Styrofoam for food-related purposes demonstrates its commitment to promoting food safety and environmental sustainability. Through the efforts of the task force and other stakeholders, the state aims to safeguard public health and ensure the availability of safe and healthy food for its residents. Adherence to food safety standards is essential for creating a sustainable and secure food system for the future.
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