TGI Affirms Commitment to Industrial Food Fortification

 Oluchi Chibuzor

Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, a leading contributor to the Nigerian economy, demonstrated a solid commitment to advancing industrial food fortification and workforce nutrition at the recently held CEO Roundtable organized by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).

Themed, “Profitable Protections: The Business Advantage of Industrial Food Fortification Compliance and Workforce Nutrition,” the event provided a strategic platform for industry leaders to discuss and share insights on the economic benefits of fortifying food products and promoting employee well-being.

Head of Corporate Communications at TGI, Rafiat Gawat delivered a compelling presentation, shining a spotlight on WACOT Rice’s pioneering role in rice fortification in Nigeria. She proudly announced a significant milestone, with TGI’s WACOT Rice producing approximately 500kg of fortified rice last month, underscoring the company’s vital role in fortifying staple foods.

Gawat emphasized the necessity of broadening investment in food fortification beyond advocacy efforts, extending the focus to urban communities. This approach ensures that the benefits of fortified food reach all segments of the population, contributing to the prevention of malnutrition in the country.

He said, “Beyond product innovation, our commitment to food fortification extends to work inclusion in the entire process,” stated Gawat. “TGI Group believes in the transformative power of fortified food, not only for consumers but also for our workforce. This commitment aligns with our vision of creating sustainable impact across the entire value chain and prioritizing the general wellbeing of our workforce.”

Head of Quality Control at TGI Group, Mustapha Mohammed, shared valuable insights during the program, shedding light on critical aspects of food fortification. “Our rice mill in Kebbi has been selected as one of the best for the fortification of rice. To ensure the success of fortified food products, customers must perceive value. This can be achieved through customer education programs emphasizing the benefits of fortified food,” noted Mohammed.

He further stressed the importance of research and development in understanding food components and micronutrients, while highlighting the need for local testing laboratories. “If we do not have testing houses in Nigeria, the cost to test these products outside the country will significantly contribute to the product’s price, thereby making it unappealing to both the manufacturer and ultimately the consumer.”