The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Adamawa has warned fruit dealers against using chemicals to ripen fruits and advised consumers to be cautious.
NAFDAC’s Coordinator in Adamawa, Mr. Gonzuk Bedima, issued the warning in an interview with newsmen in Yola on Thursday.
Bedima identified the most commonly used chemical for ripening fruits, particularly bananas and mangoes, as calcium carbide, which is mainly used in welding.
He further warned that this chemical could lead to severe health issues like cancer in any part of the body and other terminal diseases.
According to him, NAFDAC had previously sensitised the leadership of fruit sellers on the use of chemicals to ripen fruits, and has plans to continue this campaign, especially with the approach of fasting season, when many people purchase fruits for their homes.
The coordinator further explained that fruits treated with calcium carbide often appeared very ripe on the outside but are not ripened inside.
He advised that such fruits should not be purchased nor consumed when suspected because they are dangerous to the health. He further encouraged the public to report such to NAFDAC to prevent others from consuming them.
