The FCCPC has warned Nigerians against fruits ripened with harmful chemicals like calcium carbide.
Officials stressed such practices pose serious health risks and vowed strict enforcement against violators nationwide.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned Nigerians against consuming fruits that have been artificially ripened with harmful chemicals, particularly calcium carbide, citing severe health risks.
A warning was released on Monday during a single-day awareness event focused on food quality standards that took place in Ado-Ekiti.
At the event, FCCPC Executive Chairman Mr. Olatunji Bello, represented by the Director of Quality Assurance, Mrs. Nkechi Mba, condemned the widespread sale of adulterated food products in Nigerian markets. He described the trend as a “danger” to public health and consumer confidence.
Bello explained that calcium carbide contains toxic elements, including arsenic and phosphorus, which can cause long-term health complications. “The forceful ripening of fruits using such chemicals is extremely harmful. These practices not only endanger lives but also weaken consumer trust and undermine the integrity of our food systems,” he said.
The FCCPC chairman assured that the commission has already begun enforcement actions, including market surveys, facility shutdowns, sanctions, and prosecutions. He stressed that violators will face the full weight of the law.
To strengthen oversight, Bello revealed that the FCCPC is collaborating with NAFDAC, the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture. Consumers were also urged to inspect their purchases carefully to avoid contaminated produce.
Director of Consumer and Business Education, Mr. Yahaya Kudan, said the sensitization program reflects the commission’s commitment to educating farmers, vendors, and consumers on safe food practices.
The gathering included important participants, such as delegates from NAFDAC, SON, and the Federal and Ekiti State Ministries of Agriculture and Health, along with members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, the Yam Farmers Association, and the Cassava Growers Association.
The FCCPC reiterated that safeguarding Nigeria’s food system requires both strict regulation and consumer vigilance.
