The Gboko Local Government Health Authority in Benue State has seized 20,000 crates of expired Coca-Cola products from Gboko Main Market after a routine inspection revealed beverages that had expired as early as 2024. The operation, carried out under the supervision of Mrs. Wede Victoria, Director of the Health Authority, involved environmental health officers and market security personnel. The expired drinks were still being sold openly despite being past their recommended consumption dates, raising serious public health concerns.
Health officials emphasized that consuming expired carbonated beverages can lead to stomach discomfort, food poisoning, and other health complications. Mrs. Victoria stated that the evacuation of the products was a necessary measure to safeguard consumers and maintain food safety standards in the area. The seized goods were removed from traders’ stalls and transported to a government storage facility for proper disposal in line with health regulations.
Authorities have also summoned the traders linked to the expired stock for questioning. Investigations are ongoing to determine how the products entered the market and whether there were lapses in the supply chain, including distribution, storage, or retail handling. Officials are working to trace the suppliers and assess whether any regulatory breaches occurred during the distribution process.
Some traders expressed ignorance about the expiry dates, while others voiced frustration over the financial losses incurred from the seizure. However, residents of Gboko largely welcomed the intervention, noting that many consumers often buy packaged drinks without checking expiry dates. This has highlighted a growing need for greater consumer awareness and stricter compliance among vendors.
The health authority has issued a stern warning to all traders to regularly check product expiry dates and maintain proper storage conditions. Shops found selling expired or substandard goods may face sanctions, including confiscation of products and possible legal action. The authority is also considering intensified market surveillance to prevent recurrence.
This incident underscores the importance of food safety in Nigeria’s informal markets, where expired goods can easily circulate. The Gboko Health Authority’s swift response sets a precedent for similar actions across other local governments. Moving forward, public education and stricter enforcement will be key to ensuring safe consumption practices in the region.
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