Chad Bans Bledine Infant Cereals Over Aflatoxin Concerns, NAFDAC Warns Nigerians

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert following reports that Chadian authorities have prohibited the use, distribution, and sale of Bledine Infant Cereals, produced by the French multinational Danone Group.

According to the report received by NAFDAC, the ban was enforced after the product failed to meet European standards for Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) levels. Aflatoxin B1, a highly potent carcinogen, is known to pose severe health risks, particularly to infants and young children.

Further investigations suggest that the affected Bledine products may already be circulating within Nigeria, especially in communities bordering Chad, heightening public health concerns.

Health experts warn that exposure to Aflatoxin B1 can result in significant health complications, as the toxin is recognised as a strong immunotoxin capable of causing immune system disorders.

NAFDAC urged healthcare professionals and consumers to remain vigilant and report any adverse reactions or side effects linked to the use of the implicated cereals.

It further stated that reports can be submitted at any NAFDAC office or through the agency’s e-reporting platforms available on its official website, nafdac.gov.ng.