By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Senate has raised alarm over the widespread use of dangerous chemicals, particularly calcium carbide, by fruit vendors to artificially ripen fruits, describing the practice as a major public health threat.
The lawmakers, during plenary on Tuesday, resolved to amend existing legislation to criminalise the use of hazardous substances for fruit ripening, following a motion sponsored by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani (Ebonyi South), who decried the growing health risks posed by the practice.
According to Senator Ani, the use of toxic chemicals such as calcium carbide—commonly used by unscrupulous fruit vendors—has been linked to severe health conditions, including cancer, kidney failure, and other life-threatening illnesses. He warned that the continued consumption of chemically ripened fruits could have devastating consequences for public health nationwide.
In response to the motion, the Senate mandated the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), alongside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, to launch a thorough investigation into the prevalence and health impacts of the harmful practice.
The upper legislative chamber further proposed the introduction of stiffer penalties for offenders to deter future violations and protect Nigerian consumers.
The motion has been referred to the Senate Committees on Health and Agriculture for further legislative action and the drafting of proposed amendments to existing food safety laws.
