The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has cautioned operators of pepper and mill grinding machines against using rusty, corroded or poorly made equipment, warning that such machines could contaminate food and pose health risks to consumers.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Lagos State Government on Tuesday following concerns raised at the 2026 Lagos State Food Safety Conference and Exhibition, themed, “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.”
The General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, called on operators across the state to replace traditional cast-iron machines and other unsuitable locally fabricated equipment with stainless-steel and other food-grade alternatives.
Solebo noted that grinding machines were widely used by households, food vendors, restaurants, hospitals, boarding schools, caterers, traders and small-scale food businesses, making adherence to food-safety standards essential.
He warned that deteriorated equipment could expose food to metal contamination, while poor hygiene could introduce other harmful substances.
He said, “Worn, rusty or corroded grinding equipment could increase the risk of metal contamination, while accumulated food residues, dirt and grease from previous grinding activities could also compromise food safety and quality.”
The LASCOPA chief executive said the agency’s Monitoring and Enforcement Officers would step up inspections of food-processing and grinding locations across Lagos.
According to him, establishments found using unsafe or inappropriate equipment would face the necessary regulatory measures.
Solebo also advised operators to wash and maintain their machines properly after each use, ensuring that food particles and other residues were removed.
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He said, “Grinding components must be regularly inspected and properly maintained to prevent contamination and cross-contamination.”
He further urged operators to use equipment specifically designed for food processing, stressing the need to move away from traditional cast-iron machines and poorly fabricated alternatives.
The agency expressed concern that damaged grinding components could release metal particles into food, while unhygienic surroundings could expose consumers to additional contaminants.
Solebo also urged consumers to be observant when using grinding points, advising them to avoid locations where machines appeared damaged, rusty or poorly maintained.
He said, “Consumers have a role to play in protecting their own health by paying attention to the conditions under which their food is processed.”
The LASCOPA boss also appealed to politicians and other individuals who donate grinding machines as empowerment tools to provide stainless-steel and other food-grade equipment.
He said, “Consumer protection is a shared responsibility,” adding that the agency would sustain its consumer education, market surveillance and enforcement efforts to safeguard the health, safety and economic interests of Lagos residents.
Solebo encouraged members of the public to report unsafe or unhygienic food-processing practices to LASCOPA for investigation and appropriate action.
He stressed that consumers should speak up whenever they notice practices that could put their health and safety at risk.