Food Safety and Regulatory Compliance of Sachet Alcoholic Beverages: Evidence from Heavy Metals, Labelling and Alcohol Content Discrepancies

Abstract Background : Sachet alcohol beverages are widely consumed in Sub-Saharan Africa due to affordability and easy access. However, safety concerns exist regarding heavy metal contamination, inaccurate alcohol declaration, and non-compliance with regulatory labelling standards. Data on heavy metals, microelements, and labelling compliance in sachet alcoholic beverages remain limited. This study assessed heavy metals, micro-elements, alcohol by volume (ABV), and compliance with regulatory labelling requirements among sachet alcohol beverages marketed in Nigeria. Method : A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Fifteen (15) sachet alcohol brands were randomly selected from four major categories (gins, schnapps, bitters, and rum). Six micro-elements and 8 heavy metals were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Alcohol by volume was determined using Prelude Solid-Phase Liquid Chromatography and compared with labelled values. Product labels were evaluated for compliance with the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regulation. Result : Iron exceeded the World Health Organization’s (WHO) maximum permissible limit (300µg/L) in 20% of the samples, while other micro-elements were within acceptable limits. All 8 heavy metals assessed were undetectable or below WHO limits. Significant discrepancies were observed between measured ABV (13.35%) and declared ABV (37.35%) (P<0.001). Only 40% displayed valid NAFDAC registration numbers, and 26.7% included prohibited health claims. Conclusion: Sachet alcohol beverages exhibited heavy iron contamination, regulatory non-compliance in some sachets, and significant ABV misrepresentation, underscoring the need for strengthened regulatory oversight and quality monitoring. By addressing these gaps, regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and healthcare professionals can mitigate the risks of heavy metal exposure and alcohol-related harm, ultimately safeguarding public health.