The Nigerian Medical Association, Ondo State Chapter, has raised the alarm over the circulation of fake and adulterated alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, warning that their consumption could pose serious health risks.
The state chairman of the association, Dr. Roland Arohunmolase, issued the warning at a news conference in Akure on Monday, calling for urgent government intervention to protect residents.
Arohunmolase urged governments at all levels and relevant regulatory agencies to clamp down on the production and distribution of unsafe beverages across the state.
He expressed concern that counterfeit products were allegedly finding their way beyond informal markets into supermarkets, hotels, bars and other retail outlets.
The NMA chairman described the situation as a growing public health concern requiring immediate action to prevent potentially life-threatening illnesses.
According to him, medical professionals have observed an alarming rise in cases of liver cirrhosis, kidney failure and acute intoxication among patients with unusual symptoms.
He warned that adulterated beverages allegedly produced under unhygienic conditions using industrial chemicals, methanol and contaminated water could expose consumers to severe health complications.
Methanol poisoning, in particular, can cause blindness, organ damage and death, even in relatively small quantities.
The association is therefore calling for stronger surveillance, thorough investigations and enforcement measures to identify and remove counterfeit beverages from circulation.
Consumers are also advised to purchase drinks from reputable outlets, check product labels and seals, and avoid beverages of suspicious origin.
The NMA’s warning underscores the need for coordinated action by public health authorities and regulatory agencies to protect consumers and ensure that only safe, properly regulated beverages reach the market.
