Oyo State Government has officially prohibited the use of styrofoam for food services, storage, and related purposes, as part of its efforts to maintain food safety standards within the state.
The decision to ban styrofoam was prompted by a resolution passed by the state House of Assembly on February 8, 2024, advocating for its elimination from food-related activities.
During the Food Safety Stakeholders Forum and the inauguration of the Food Safety Compliance Enforcement Task Force in Ibadan, the state Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, announced the ban, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures in safeguarding public health.
Ajetunmobi highlighted concerns over food poisoning, improper chemical usage in food production, and other malpractices by food business operators, underscoring the need for strict adherence to food safety standards to protect lives.
The newly inaugurated task force will focus on raising awareness among stakeholders along the food chain about the significance of complying with food safety regulations. Additionally, the director of food, water, and laboratory services in the ministry, Afusat Akande, outlined the criteria for certification, including medical fitness certificates, regular fumigation of production premises, and water quality analysis.
The task force, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Akintunde Ayinde, comprises members from various sectors, including the state Food Safety Management Committee and relevant associations.
Oyo State’s ban on styrofoam mirrors similar initiatives undertaken by other states, such as Lagos, which initiated a ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics earlier in January.
