Poisonous mangoes discovered – run for your life

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized truckloads of mangoes ripened with calcium carbide.

Gombe State NAFDAC Coordinator, James Agada, confirmed the seizure on Thursday, warning about the dangers of chemically ripened fruits.

He said consuming such fruits poses serious health risks, including cancer, heart disease, kidney failure, and liver damage.

“Calcium carbide contains toxic impurities like arsenic, lead, and phosphorus, which endanger public health,” Agada stated.

NAFDAC officers have intensified efforts to educate traders and consumers on the dangers of artificial fruit ripening.

“We made several attempts to educate fruit traders before catching this batch at Hayan Dogon Ruwa in Billiri LGA,” he revealed.

Agada emphasized the need for vigilance, urging Nigerians to be cautious when buying fruits from the market.

“The ripening of fruits with carbides is a major public health challenge we are actively addressing,” he added.

He reassured citizens that NAFDAC has deployed various strategies to combat the menace of chemically ripened fruits.

According to him, artificially ripened fruits can be identified by their uniform yellow color and darkened stems.

“They often have powdery substances on their skin, peel easily, and spoil faster than naturally ripened fruits,” he explained.

Agada noted that such chemical processes also affect fruit quality, reducing taste, aroma, and nutritional value.

“Fruits ripened this way lack their natural sweetness and proper texture,” he added.

Consumers were urged to prioritize naturally ripened fruits, which have brown or black spots and are juicier.

“Naturally ripened fruits are safer, more flavorful, and retain their essential nutrients,” Agada advised.

NAFDAC warned traders that selling chemically ripened fruits is a punishable offense under Nigerian food safety regulations.

“We will not tolerate any actions that endanger public health,” Agada stressed.

The agency assured Nigerians that strict monitoring and enforcement will continue to safeguard the food supply chain.

“Public cooperation is crucial in identifying and reporting those involved in illegal fruit ripening practices,” he added.

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of fruits sold in Nigerian markets.

Readers,do ensure to check and observe well the fruit you purchase inorder not to be a victim of poisonous fruits.

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