Evaluation of Consumer Protection Awareness and Practices in the Purchase of Processed Foods in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, South South Nigeria

Consumer protection in the food sector empowers individuals to make informed choices, report substandard products, and access redress when harmed by unsafe or mislabelled foods. In Nigeria, awareness of consumer rights in the context of processed food purchases remains limited among the general population. This study evaluated consumer protection awareness and practices in the purchase of processed foods in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, South South Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used, with 220 adult consumers recruited from three major retail markets. Structured questionnaires assessed knowledge of NAFDAC regulations, label reading habits, reporting behaviour for substandard products, and awareness of consumer rights organisations. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square. Results showed that most respondents were unfamiliar with NAFDAC's e-reporting platform and consumer complaint channels. Label reading was practiced by fewer than 35 percent of respondents, and awareness of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria was low. Younger and more educated consumers demonstrated relatively better consumer protection awareness. Experience with purchasing counterfeit or expired products was common, yet formal complaints were rarely lodged. The study recommends consumer education campaigns by NAFDAC and the Consumer Protection Council, leveraging local radio, community town hall meetings, and digital platforms to raise food safety awareness in Akwa Ibom State. Keywords: consumer protection, processed foods, food labelling, Uyo, NAFDAC awareness