Evaluation of Food Labelling Compliance Among Small and Medium Food Enterprises in Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria

Accurate and compliant food labelling is a regulatory requirement in Nigeria and a fundamental consumer right, enabling informed food choices and supporting food safety. Despite NAFDAC regulations, compliance among small and medium enterprises remains inconsistent. This study evaluated food labelling compliance among small and medium food enterprises in Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used, with 120 food enterprises selected through purposive sampling from registered businesses in three local government areas. Products were assessed against NAFDAC labelling requirements including product name, ingredient list, nutritional information, manufacturing and expiry dates, and registration number. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, and a compliance index. Results showed that while most products displayed product names and expiry dates, compliance with nutritional information requirements, allergen declarations, and batch codes was poor. Micro-enterprises demonstrated significantly lower compliance rates compared to small and medium firms. A majority of enterprise owners reported limited awareness of current NAFDAC labelling guidelines. The study recommends that NAFDAC and the Imo State government intensify regulatory outreach and provide affordable technical assistance to small food businesses to improve labelling compliance and protect consumer interests. Keywords: food labelling, NAFDAC compliance, small enterprises, Owerri, consumer protection