Kaneshie market women deny mixing alum into konkonte

Kaneshie market women have refuted allegations that alum is being added to konkonte to change its color, calling the claims false. They urge consumers to rely on accurate information rather than unverified rumors. The women explain that the varying colors of konkonte are natural and depend on factors like the season of cassava harvest, processing, and drying.

They point out that weather and drying conditions during different seasons can affect the konkonte's final appearance and color. The traders encourage consumers not to panic when they see konkonte in different shades, emphasizing that these color variations can occur naturally during drying. They stress that differences in color should not be mistaken for evidence of adulteration.

The Kaneshie Market women were prompted to address the claims after they began circulating among the public. However, they reject the allegations and call for better public education on the traditional methods used to process konkonte. They also urge consumers to verify information before spreading unverified claims that could cause fear and uncertainty.

The traders warn that such misinformation could have serious consequences for the livelihoods of those who produce and sell konkonte. They appeal to relevant authorities and stakeholders to clarify the proper processing and handling of konkonte to debunk misinformation. The market women also encourage consumers with concerns about konkonte's safety or quality to seek clarification from food safety authorities rather than relying on unverified claims.

For the traders, educating the public with accurate information is crucial to protecting consumers while safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers, processors, and traders who depend on konkonte. The women maintain that the natural variation in konkonte's color should not be a cause for alarm and urge the public to approach such claims with caution.