Concerns are mounting among Nigerian parents and healthcare professionals over a viral “organic weight gain pap” being marketed for infants. The product, widely promoted on social media, claims to help babies gain weight rapidly, sparking debates about its safety and nutritional value. Nigerians are now calling on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to investigate the substance and its claims.
Many parents have reported encountering the product in local markets and online platforms, with sellers emphasizing its “organic” nature as a selling point. However, health experts have raised red flags, noting the lack of regulatory approval and verifiable scientific backing for the product’s claims. They warn that indiscriminate use of unregulated food products could pose serious health risks to infants.
Social media has been flooded with both positive testimonials and cautionary tales regarding the weight gain pap. While some parents swear by its effectiveness, others have reported adverse effects, including digestive issues and allergic reactions in their children. These mixed experiences have heightened calls for NAFDAC to act swiftly in ensuring the product’s compliance with safety and quality standards.
Pediatricians and dietitians have advised parents to prioritize proven, balanced nutrition for their babies instead of resorting to unverified supplements. According to experts, sudden and excessive weight gain in infants is not always a sign of good health and could lead to long-term complications. They recommend consulting healthcare professionals before introducing any new dietary products to infants.
NAFDAC has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but consumer advocacy groups are urging the agency to conduct thorough laboratory tests and ensure proper labeling for such products. They stress that protecting children’s health should remain a top priority, particularly in the face of growing trends in unregulated organic food sales.
This incident underscores the need for stricter regulation and public education about infant nutrition in Nigeria. As more Nigerians call for transparency and accountability, the outcome of NAFDAC’s investigation could set a precedent for addressing similar concerns in the future.
