The Gboko Local Government Health Authority in Benue State has evacuated 20,000 crates of expired Coca-Cola products from Gboko Main Market following a routine inspection that reportedly uncovered beverages that had expired since 2024.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of the Director of the Gboko Local Government Health Authority, Mrs Wede Victoria, alongside environmental health officers and market security personnel.
According to health officials, the expired products were still openly displayed for sale within the market despite having exceeded their recommended consumption dates.
Mrs Victoria stated that the action became necessary to protect consumers from potential health risks associated with expired beverages.
She noted that the consumption of expired carbonated drinks could result in stomach discomfort, food poisoning and other health complications.
As part of the exercise, health inspectors removed the affected products from traders’ stalls and transported them to a government storage facility pending destruction in accordance with applicable health and safety regulations.
Authorities also invited traders linked to the seized stock for questioning while investigations continue to determine how the products entered the market.
Officials said efforts are underway to trace suppliers and establish whether there were breaches in distribution, storage or retail practices.
Some traders reportedly claimed they were unaware the products had expired, while others expressed concern over the financial losses resulting from the seizure.
Residents of Gboko largely welcomed the intervention, noting that many consumers purchase packaged drinks without routinely checking expiry dates before consumption.
The health authority has warned traders to regularly inspect product expiry dates and adhere to proper storage standards.
Officials stressed that shops found selling expired or substandard products could face sanctions, including confiscation of goods and possible prosecution.
