The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a stark warning regarding the use of harmful chemicals in food processing, particularly highlighting the dangerous practice of using calcium carbide to ripen fruits. This alert was delivered by Dr. Kingsley Udeh, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, during an event in Abuja commemorating the 2026 World Science Day for Peace and Development. Udeh emphasized the serious health risks associated with unsafe food handling and processing methods, which he described as significant national concerns.
In his address, Dr. Udeh pointed out various hazardous practices prevalent in Nigeria, including the use of paracetamol to soften meat and the application of detergents in cassava production. He also condemned the treatment of beans and grains with unauthorized chemicals and the adulteration of palm oil with harmful colorants like Sudan IV. These practices not only threaten public health but also undermine consumer confidence and compromise food security, according to the minister.S2
Citing alarming statistics from the World Health Organization, Udeh noted that approximately 866 million people suffer from foodborne illnesses globally each year, leading to around 1.52 million deaths, including 143,000 children under five. In Nigeria alone, health authorities estimate that there are about 50 million cases of foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in over 53,000 deaths. The economic impact of unsafe food practices is also significant, costing the global economy an estimated $310 billion each year.S2
To combat these issues, Dr. Udeh announced plans to enhance food safety monitoring by deploying qualified food science and technology professionals, particularly at the local government level. He highlighted the need for a professional cadre for food science and technology practitioners within the public service to ensure that trained experts are involved in food inspection, processing, and quality control. Udeh lamented that Nigeria has not fully utilized its available expertise, despite producing around 3,000 food science and technology professionals annually.S1S2
