On Monday, the Oyo State Government implemented a prohibition on the utilization of styrofoam for food services, storage, and related purposes.

The state House of Assembly had on Thursday, February 8, 2024, called on the state government to disallow the use of styrofoam for food purposes within the state. Consequently, it inaugurated the Food Safety Compliance Enforcement Task Force to oversee the enforcement of food safety regulations.

During the Food Safety Stakeholders Forum and the task force’s inauguration at the ministry’s conference room in the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the state Commissioner for Health, announced this decision. Ajetunmobi, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Akintunde Ayinde, highlighted that this decision aligns with the government’s commitment to maintaining food safety standards.

Ajetunmobi emphasized, “Prevention is better and cheaper than cure; hence the need for people to adhere strictly to food standards to save lives in the state.” She noted concerns about food poisoning and other practices that pose public health risks.

She also stated, “Consequently, the use of Styrofoam for food services, storage, and other related usage in the state is also banned.” The commissioner outlined that the task force would educate stakeholders along the food chain on the importance of complying with food safety standards.

Afusat Akande, the director of food, water, and laboratory services in the ministry, outlined the prerequisites for certification along the food chain, including medical fitness certificates, fumigation evidence, and water quality analysis.

The permanent secretary, Ayinde, pledged to collaborate with the ministry to meet its objectives. The task force, led by Ayinde, comprises members from various organizations, including the state Food Safety Management Committee and the Nigeria Police Force.

This initiative mirrors the Lagos State Government’s ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics, which commenced in January.