By Milcah Tanimu

The Oyo State Government has officially prohibited the use of styrofoam for food services, storage, and related purposes as part of its efforts to uphold food safety standards in the state. The decision follows a recommendation by the state House of Assembly on February 8, 2024, leading to the establishment of the Food Safety Compliance Enforcement Task Force.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, during the Food Safety Stakeholders Forum and the inauguration of the task force in Ibadan, the state capital. Ajetunmobi emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing health risks associated with food poisoning, improper chemical usage in food production, and other sharp practices by food business operators.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Akintunde Ayinde, Ajetunmobi highlighted the importance of adhering strictly to food standards to safeguard lives in the state. The ban includes the use of styrofoam for food services, storage, and related purposes.

The task force, consisting of members from the state Food Safety Management Committee, the Nigeria Police Force, the Association of Table Water Producers, the Association of Canteen Workers, and others, will play a crucial role in sensitizing stakeholders along the food chain about the significance of implementing food safety standards. The directive aims to ensure the provision of wholesome edibles for public consumption.

Afusat Akande, the director of food, water, and laboratory services in the ministry, outlined the basic requirements for certification along the food chain. These include routine medical fitness certificates from designated state government hospitals, evidence of regular fumigation of production premises, and water quality analysis, among other criteria.

The task force, led by the permanent secretary, Ayinde, expressed commitment to working with the ministry to achieve the set objectives and enhance food safety in the state. This move aligns with broader efforts to curb environmental and health concerns associated with the use of single-use plastics and styrofoam, with Lagos State also implementing a ban on such materials in January.