The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised a fresh warning over Bulmex Parboiled Rice after the Republic of Niger banned its importation due to alleged metal contamination.
Although the agency said it has not confirmed the presence of Bulmex Parboiled Rice in Nigerian markets, it has stepped up surveillance to stop the product from entering the country’s food supply. The alert follows an official notification from authorities in the Republic of Niger.
According to NAFDAC, investigations carried out by the Agadez Regional Directorate of Commerce and Industry found iron debris inside the rice, making it unsafe for consumers. Consequently, the neighbouring country prohibited its importation and distribution as a safety measure.
Advertisement
In Public Alert No. 034/2026, the agency quoted the findings, saying, “The investigation report confirmed that iron debris was found in the product, making it unsafe for consumption. As a precaution, the importation and distribution of the affected product have been prohibited.”
Furthermore, NAFDAC explained that Bulmex is sold as a brand of Indian parboiled rice and Pakistani long-grain rice. The agency identified Karam Food Grains Private Limited, Paragon Commodities Limited and Imoro Brunya/Sulemana Imoro Distribution Company as major suppliers.
However, the regulator stressed that there is no confirmation that the affected rice is currently being sold in Nigeria.
Screenshot
“It is important to note that the availability of Bulmex parboiled rice in the Nigerian market, as claimed, has not yet been confirmed. NAFDAC is issuing this alert to strengthen surveillance and prevent the possible circulation of the product through cross-border trade,” the agency stated.
Meanwhile, NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to increase market inspections and immediately seize the product if it is found anywhere in Nigeria.
The agency also urged distributors, retailers and consumers to carefully inspect food products before buying or selling them. In addition, members of the public were advised to report suspected fake or unsafe products through the nearest NAFDAC office, the toll-free number 0800-162-3322, or by email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
