The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the purchase and consumption of Bulmex Parboiled Rice, following reports that the product was banned in the Republic of Niger after laboratory investigations detected metallic contamination.
The agency issued the warning under Public Alert No. 034/2026, urging heightened vigilance among consumers, distributors and retailers.
According to NAFDAC, authorities in Niger prohibited the importation and distribution of the Indian rice brand after regulatory inspections by the Regional Directorate of Commerce and Industry reportedly found iron debris in the product, rendering it unsafe for human consumption. The agency explained that ingesting metallic particles poses serious health risks, including injuries to the digestive tract.
NAFDAC noted that although the presence of Bulmex Parboiled Rice in the Nigerian market has not yet been confirmed, it has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify market surveillance and immediately remove the product if found. The agency also warned importers, distributors and retailers against stocking or selling the affected rice pending further investigations.
Consumers were advised to avoid purchasing the product, and to report any suspected sale or distribution of Bulmex Parboiled Rice to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the agency’s official reporting channels.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health by preventing contaminated food products from entering Nigeria’s food supply chain.
