Assessment of Chemical Preservative Use and Labelling Compliance in Processed Fruit Drinks Manufactured by Small-Scale Producers in Onitsha, Anambra State

Small-scale processed fruit drink manufacturers constitute a significant segment of the food industry in Onitsha, Anambra State, supplying affordable beverages to urban and peri-urban consumers in South East Nigeria. Compliance with NAFDAC food additive regulations and accurate labelling of preservatives including sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate are mandatory requirements often poorly adhered to in this sector. This study assessed chemical preservative concentrations and labelling compliance in twenty processed fruit drink products from small-scale manufacturers in Onitsha. Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate were quantified by HPLC-UV against certified reference standards. Labelling was evaluated against NAFDAC and SON food labelling regulations for completeness, accuracy of declared additives, and manufacturer information. Sodium benzoate was present in 17 of 20 products, with three exceeding the Codex Alimentarius maximum level of 500 mg/L. Potassium sorbate was detected in 8 products, with two showing undeclared use. Labelling was incomplete in 75% of products, with missing batch numbers, NAFDAC registration, and manufacturing address being the most frequent omissions. Preservative type was declared in only 40% of products containing detectable preservatives. The chemical quality and labelling profile of small-scale processed fruit drinks in Onitsha indicates widespread regulatory non-compliance, creating consumer safety and information risks. Targeted regulatory engagement and capacity building for small-scale food producers is recommended. Keywords: sodium benzoate, food preservatives, labelling compliance, Onitsha, HPLC.