The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against eating fruits ripened with calcium carbide.
The Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Olatunji Bello, gave the warning on Monday during a one-day sensitisation programme on food quality standards organised by the agency in Ado-Ekiti.
Represented by the agency’s Director of Quality Assurance, Mrs. Nkechi Mba, Bello condemned the growing trend of adulterated and contaminated foods being sold in markets. He stressed that such practices endanger the lives of innocent Nigerians.
Bello assured that the FCCPC would ensure that perpetrators of such “heinous acts” do not go unpunished. He explained that the sensitisation programme was a first step to alert unsuspecting consumers and to send a clear warning signal to defiant offenders.
FCCPC Strengthens Enforcement and Collaboration to Combat Hazardous Food Practices
According to him, total enforcement of the law has already commenced, as the FCCPC remains committed to its statutory duty of protecting and promoting consumer interests and welfare.
“The issues of food quality standards, safety, and fair business practices are more pressing than ever, but we continue to see alarming trends. Such alarming trends include principally the forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals, such as calcium carbide, which contains trace amounts of arsenic and phosphorus, both of which are highly toxic to humans.
“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 stated.
He added that the FCCPC was working in collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture to ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations.
The FCCPC boss also advised consumers to be cautious about what they buy in markets and farms. He revealed that through regular market surveys, the agency had been able to intervene in many cases involving hazardous food practices shutting down facilities, imposing sanctions, and prosecuting offenders when necessary.
Also speaking at the event, the agency’s Director of Consumer and Business Education, Mr. Yahaya Kudan, said the sensitisation programme reflected the FCCPC’s strong commitment to educating and empowering consumers, farmers, vendors, and other stakeholders within the food supply chain.
Stay Informed and Protect Your Health!
Don’t fall victim to harmful food practices like chemically ripened fruits. Visit LouisaOlaniyi.com.ng for more information on food safety, consumer rights, and tips on how to make safe choices for you and your family. Together, let’s promote a healthier Nigeria!
