NAFDAC FRUIT JUICE AND NECTAR REGULATIONS 2019

What Is This Policy?

These Regulations set the quality, safety, labelling, and registration standards for all fruit juice and nectar products manufactured, imported, or sold within Nigeria.

Who Does It Target?

Fruit juice and nectar manufacturers and bottlers Importers and wholesale distributors of juice products Retailers selling fruit juice and nectar to Nigerian consumers

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

To protect Nigerian consumers by ensuring that every fruit juice and nectar product on the market meets defined composition, hygiene, labelling, and safety standards before it reaches any shelf.

Key Features

Product Composition Standards: Defines minimum juice content, permissible additives, sweeteners, and preservatives for each product category Labelling Requirements: Mandates clear disclosure of ingredients, expiry date, storage conditions, and manufacturer details on every package Mandatory Registration: Requires NAFDAC product registration before any fruit juice or nectar can be sold or distributed in Nigeria Import Controls: Sets documentation, country-of-origin health certification, and inspection conditions for all imported juice products Enforcement Powers: Grants NAFDAC authority to inspect premises, seize non-compliant products, and initiate prosecution

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Fully operational Coverage: Nationwide Beneficiaries to Date: Nigerian consumers and registered compliant manufacturers Funding: NAFDAC registration and inspection fees, supported by federal government appropriations

How to Access

Manufacturers and importers must register each product with NAFDAC before it is placed on the Nigerian market. Completed NAFDAC product registration application Laboratory analysis confirming product composition meets the Regulations Label artwork samples submitted for regulatory review Factory inspection report or valid import documentation Application method: NAFDAC zonal offices nationwide or the NAFDAC e-Regulations portal at nafdac.gov.ng

Important Terms

Non-compliant products are liable to seizure and destruction at the owner's cost Sale or distribution of unregistered or adulterated products attracts criminal penalties under the NAFDAC Act

Official Resources

Website: www.nafdac.gov.ng

Legal Framework

Issued under the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control Act 1993 (as amended), which empowers NAFDAC to make regulations, issue guidelines, and enforce standards. Operates alongside the Food and Drugs Act Cap F32 LFN 2004, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act 2015, and the Codex Alimentarius Commission standards adopted by Nigeria. Draws on the Codex Alimentarius General Standard for Fruit Juices and Nectars (CODEX STAN 247-2005), WHO food safety guidelines, and the SON Nigerian Industrial Standards for fruit juice and nectar products.