The Standards Organisation of Nigeria recently met with stakeholders in the fats, oils, oil seeds, and tree nut sector to review the standards for mayonnaise at its Laboratory Complex in Ogba, Lagos.
The Director General Mallam Farouk Salim, in his opening remarks, commended members of the Technical Committee (TC) for taking part in this national assignment, stressing the importance of the review of this standard.
Group photograph of the Technical Committee Members at the end of the Meeting.
He explained that due to the rising consciousness for quality, safe and healthy lifestyle, there is now a need for the review of this standard to accommodate a healthier option such as low-fat mayonnaise hence the review of this standard.
The DG, who was represented by the Head of Food Group, Mr. Y.B. Mohammed, noted that the meeting was convened to review important standards that are necessary for supporting the growth of the Nigerian economy and also produce a credible document that will serve as a guide to manufacturers, distributors and consumers alike to ensure safety and fair-trade practices.
Salim also reminded them that the elaboration, review, and adoption of standards are guided by principles of which a key component is stakeholders’ involvement and active participation to arrive at a consensus. He urged them to put in their best to ensure that the aim of the gathering is achieved and wished them a successful deliberation.
Mr. Y.B. Mohammed ( Dep. Dir. and Head Food Group) giving the DG’s opening remarks
Also speaking at the event was the Director Standards Development Directorate, Engr. Yahaya Bukar said that the meeting was a crucial one, the reason being that mayonnaise is a very important commodity in the food value chain and one equally commonly used in the country.
Engr. Bukar added that due to the need for healthier options ,there is a great need to review this standard to a more quality and credible document that will serve as a guide to manufacturers. And therefore, urged all present to be steadfast and contribute their expertise to ensure that a quality standard is produced.
The Technical Committee Chairman, Dr. Omodele Aluko, while addressing the stakeholders, said that the active participation of all present is a necessary prerequisite to producing a very robust document that will serve as a standard document while considering the safety and health of the Nigerians.
Dr. Aluko, therefore, urged all members to ensure that they pay adequate attention and contribute their wealth of experience so that manufacturers will have a credible document that will serve as a guide in the best interest of our dear country.
