This warning came on the heels of consumer complaints over a batch of purported unwholesome Sprite 50cl glass bottles circulating in the Nigerian market.
Recall that Sprite is a brand of carbonated soft drink from the stable of Nigeria Bottling Company, (NBC) under franchise arrangement with the Coca-Cola Company.
According to NAFDAC, the product manufacturer was Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (Abuja plant) with AZ6 22:32 batch number. The national regulatory body further revealed that the product was discovered following a consumer complaint received and investigated by the post-marketing surveillance unit of the agency.
NAFDAC investigation revealed that over five crates of the implicated batch of Sprite 50cl glass bottles were discovered to be contaminated with particles.
A statement by the regulatory body reads in part, "The affected batch of the unwholesome product has been sampled for laboratory analysis in the NAFDAC laboratory and the Agency has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to carry out surveillance and mop up the implicated batch of the unwholesome product.
“Similarly, a comprehensive current Good Manufacturing Practice Inspection of the manufacturing site is to be carried out by the Agency, this is to find the route cause of the contamination and ensure compliance to marketing authorisation.
“Furthermore, the company, (Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (Abuja plant) has been directed to recall the implicated batch of the unwholesome product and report to NAFDAC for effective monitoring.”
The statement also noted that the product was manufactured on April 4, 2023.
“NAFDAC implores distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance to avoid the consumption, sale, or distribution of the unwholesome product. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.
“Anyone in possession of the above-mentioned batch of Sprite 50cl glass bottles is advised to submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office. If you, or someone you know, have consumed this product or suffered any adverse reaction/event after consumption, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional,” the statement added.
