The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Adamawa State has warned fruit dealers against using chemicals to ripen fruits and advised consumers to be cautious.
Gonzuk Bedima, NAFDAC Coordinator in the state, warned against using calcium carbide, a common chemical used in welding, to ripen fruits like bananas and oranges.
Bedima stated that this chemical can cause cancer in any part of the body.
He mentioned that the agency had previously sensitized the leadership of fruit sellers and planned to continue this campaign, especially with the approach of the fasting season, when many people purchased fruits for their homes.
The organizer advised consumers to avoid buying chemically ripened fruits owing to health hazards.
Calcium carbide-treated fruits may appear ripe on the outside but not on the inside.
“If you suspect such fruits, avoid buying them, as they are dangerous to your health,” he said, encouraging the public to report them to NAFDAC to prevent others from consuming them.
