The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Adamawa has cautioned fruit dealers against using chemicals to artificially ripen fruits, warning of serious health risks, and advising consumers to be cautious.
Mr Gonzuk Bedima, NAFDAC Coordinator in Adamawa, issued the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Yola on Thursday.
He highlighted that the most commonly used chemical for ripening fruits, particularly bananas and oranges, was calcium carbide, which is mainly used in welding.
According to Bedima, this chemical can cause cancer in any part of the body.
He noted that NAFDAC had previously sensitised the leadership of fruit sellers and plans to continue this campaign, especially with the approach of fasting season, when many people purchased fruits for their homes.
The coordinator urged consumers to be vigilant and avoid buying fruits ripened with chemicals due to the health risks.
He explained that fruits treated with calcium carbide often appeared very ripe on the outside but were not ripened inside.
“If you suspect such fruits, avoid buying them, as they are dangerous to your health,” he said, encouraging the public to report such fruits to NAFDAC to prevent others from consuming them.