Gboko Local Government Health Authority in Benue State has removed 20,000 crates of expired Coca-Cola products from Gboko Main Market following a routine inspection that revealed the beverages had expired since 2024.
The operation, led by the Director of Gboko Local Government Health Authority, Mrs. Wede Victoria, was carried out on Wednesday through environmental health officers. Officials said the expired drinks were still openly displayed for sale, posing serious risks to public health.
The Director explained that consuming the expired carbonated drinks could lead to stomach upset, food poisoning, and other health complications. The action was taken to safeguard residents and prevent the circulation of substandard products, in line with NAFDAC and local government food safety regulations.
During the exercise, health inspectors, environmental officers, and market security personnel moved the crates from traders’ stalls to a government storage facility pending destruction. Traders connected to the expired stock were invited for questioning, and authorities are tracing their suppliers to determine the source of the goods.
Reactions in the market were mixed. Some traders claimed they were unaware the products had expired, while others worried about the financial loss. Residents of Gboko, however, largely applauded the swift intervention, with many noting that consumers often buy drinks without checking expiry dates.
The Director issued a strong warning to all traders in Gboko to always check expiry dates and store products properly. She emphasized that any shop found selling expired or substandard goods would face sanctions, including seizure of products and possible prosecution.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by health authorities in Benue State to enforce food safety standards and protect consumers from potential hazards in local markets.
