Lagos – The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has accused Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited and its bottling partner, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), of misleading consumers about their products.
According to a report released by the FCCPC, the companies introduced a “Coca-Cola Less Sugar” variant without proper notification and packaged it almost identically to the original Coca-Cola. Despite significant differences in taste, composition, and nutritional value, the products shared the same packaging, brand design, and NAFDAC registration number.
The consumer protection agency initiated investigations in 2019 after detecting these discrepancies. Similar accusations were leveled against NBC for its Limca Lime-Lemon drink, which was also found to be misleadingly packaged.
The FCCPC maintains that these practices constitute unfair marketing and deceptive trade practices. The companies have yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
The commission, which operates under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, is mandated to protect market competition and safeguard consumer rights. Its findings have raised concerns about the transparency and ethical practices of major consumer goods companies in Nigeria.
