3 months ago
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NAFDAC DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye
The National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control has warned the public over the dangers of consuming contaminated and improperly stored foods.
The Bauchi State Coordinator of the agency, Dr. Paul Kamai issued the warning in the wake of the tragic incidents involving several people who died after consuming Lalo (a local leafy vegetable), cassava, and other kinds of foods in some states across the country.
In an exclusive interview with Arewa PUNCH on Wednesday, the NAFDAC boss emphasised the importance of ensuring that all foods are thoroughly cooked and stored under hygienic conditions to prevent foodborne illnesses.
He also cautioned that “The consumption of foods exposed to agrochemicals, which are commonly used for storage can pose significant health risks if not handled properly.
“Even foods that are well-cooked or refrigerated must be stored in a clean environment to ensure they remain safe for consumption.”
On his part, an agricultural expert, Dr. Ilyasu Gital explained the various factors that contribute to food poisoning, especially during this season.
He pointed out that “one of the primary causes of food poisoning is the improper application of chemicals to crops as such it is important to observe and wait for certain periods after pesticide application.”
Gital explained further that “poor storage conditions of food items has also been highlighted as a major risk factor for contamination. That is to say, when food is poorly stored, it becomes a breeding ground for fungi, bacteria, and viruses, which can cross-infect plants and animals.”
The agric expert also shed light on the dangers of consuming poorly prepared food items, particularly cassava, stating that most cassava varieties contain cyanogenic compounds, which, if not properly prepared, do not escape as hydrogen cyanide.
He stressed the need of ensuring that food items containing toxic substances, such as cassava, are prepared in a manner that reduces or eliminates these toxins.
Arewa PUNCH reports that Dr. Gital further advised farmers to take extra precautions in handling and preparing food items, urging them to avoid spraying pesticides on crops that are intended for immediate consumption and to be mindful of the chemicals present in their produce.
