CAPPA Warns Bouillon Cube Fortification May Harm Health

On World Heart Day, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) alerted that the mandatory fortification of bouillon cubes, commonly referred to as “Maggi,” could jeopardize efforts to combat diet-related diseases in Nigeria. Akinbode Oluwafemi, CAPPA’s Executive Director, stated that Nigeria is facing an increasingly unhealthy food environment, with ultra-processed foods heavily marketed.

He highlighted this year's theme, “Don’t Miss a Beat,” which focuses on recognizing early signs of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CAPPA's report documented how food companies promote unhealthy foods, particularly targeting children and low-income communities.

Akinbode noted that diets high in salt, sugars, and unhealthy fats lead to obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. He stressed the WHO's recommendation for sodium intake and the rising global health issues associated with excessive sodium consumption.

Akinbode expressed concern over proposals for mandatory fortification of ultra-processed foods, arguing that adding nutrients does not mitigate the health risks posed by high sodium and unhealthy ingredients.