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Former Big Brother Naija housemate and medical doctor, Tjay, has raised concerns over the possible health risks associated with eating shawa fish, warning that the dried fish could contain harmful substance.
In a video shared online, Tjay identified the whitish substance often seen on shawa fish as mould, adding that the fish could also contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
He further cautioned that soaking the fish in water before cooking may not completely remove the potentially harmful substances.
Shawa fish is commonly used in Nigerian meals, particularly soups and stews.
“Guys, see this shawa, this dry fish is one of the most toxic fishes that we eat in the country,” he said.
Tjay advised consumers to soak the fish for at least one hour before removing the head and skin, claiming that about 50 per cent of the toxins were concentrated in the head.
He also urged Nigerians to choose smaller-sized shawa fish, claiming that the tiny ones were less toxic.
“The tiny ones are less toxic,” he added.
