By ebosele@hotmail.com –
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has commenced the review of the Nigerian Industrial Standard for Wheat Flour (NIS 121:2015) to address emerging quality concerns, strengthen food safety and improve the quality of flour and bakery products in Nigeria.
The review is being conducted in collaboration with wheat flour manufacturers and other relevant stakeholders in the industry.
Representing the Director-General and Chief Executive of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, at the engagement, the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Talatu Ethan, described the review as timely, noting that significant developments had taken place in the flour milling industry since the standard was introduced in 2015.
She stressed the importance of maintaining high standards for wheat flour, particularly given its implications for consumer health, food safety and national food security.
The Director of Laboratory Services, Mr. David Ikenebome, explained that the review was prompted by recurring failures identified during laboratory analyses of bread samples, including elevated ash values.
According to him, reliable laboratory data and standardised analytical methods are essential to determining the root causes of the quality challenges and developing appropriate interventions.
Stakeholders at the engagement agreed that the review must be evidence-based and scientifically validated. Flour millers are expected to submit relevant laboratory and production data to support the review process.
SON will also circulate the existing standard and a comments template to relevant stakeholders to enable them examine the provisions and submit recommendations.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Head of Food Group, Mrs. Nene Obianwu, appreciated stakeholders for their participation and contributions to the review process.
She expressed confidence that the exercise would produce a stronger and more effective standard capable of improving product quality, protecting consumers and supporting the growth of Nigeria’s food industry.
