FG raises the alarm over carbide-ripened fruits, paracetamol-treated meat in markets

The Federal Government in Nigeria has expressed alarm over the increasing use of harmful chemicals in food sold in markets, including calcium carbide for fruit ripening, paracetamol for meat softening, and the adulteration of palm oil with prohibited colourants. Dr Kingsley Udeh, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, warned that these practices endanger lives, undermine consumer confidence, and compromise food security, leading to widespread foodborne illnesses and deaths.

The minister announced plans to strengthen food safety monitoring by deploying qualified food science and technology professionals, particularly at the local government level, to ensure proper food inspection, processing, and quality control.

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