The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned Nigerians against consuming fruits artificially ripened with hazardous chemicals such as calcium carbide. The warning was issued in Ado-Ekiti on Monday during a food quality sensitization program by FCCPC Executive Chairman, Mr. Olatunji Bello, represented by the agency’s Director of Quality Assurance, Mrs. Nkechi Mba. Bello condemned the growing circulation of adulterated and contaminated foods, stressing the severe health risks posed to consumers.
“These practices not only endanger the lives of millions of Nigerians, but they also erode consumer trust and sabotage the integrity of our food systems,” Bello said, noting that calcium carbide contains toxic traces of arsenic and phosphorus. He revealed that the FCCPC has begun enforcement measures, including market surveys, facility closures, sanctions, and prosecutions. The agency is also working with NAFDAC, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture to ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations.
FCCPC’s Director of Consumer and Business Education, Mr. Yahaya Kudan, reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting Nigerians through education and collaboration with stakeholders across the food chain, from farmers to consumers. The sensitization program, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, brought together key players such as NAFDAC, SON, Ekiti State ministries, and associations including the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Yam Farmers Association, and Cassava Growers. Consumers have been urged to carefully check the quality of fruits and report suspicious practices to help safeguard public health.
Source: https://www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com/
