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From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the alleged use of harmful chemicals for the preservation of frozen foods, as well as alleged importation of frozen foods preserved with carcinogenic substances.
Consequently, the House mandated its Committees on Nutrition and Food Security, NAFDAC and Safety Standards to undertake the probe and report back to it within six legislative weeks for further actions.
The parliament invited the Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and relevant agencies to appear before the probe panel.
This was sequel to the adoption of a motion by Chike Okafor, calling on the House to investigate alleged use of harmful chemicals for the preservation of frozen food,in the country, at yesterday’s plenary.
Okafor, who is also the chairman, House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, in his lead debate, stated that there have been public outcry on the alleged use of dangerous chemicals, such as formalin, sodium hydroxide, snipers, kerosene and carbide to preserve frozen fish, prawns, shrimp, meat and other food items in Nigerian markets.
According to him, reports from regulatory bodies, health experts and media investigations revealed that these chemicals commonly used for embalming corpses, industrial processes and ripening fruits, are now allegedly being used to prolong the shelf life of perishable foods.
“These chemicals pose serious health risks to consumers, including the potential for developmental disorder (autism) in children, cancer, organ damage and other life-threatening health conditions for uncountable Nigerians as documented by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). “Most frozen products imported into Nigeria are preserved, using carcinogenic substances. These are substances or radiations that are agents directly involved in causing cancer. Some eateries use certain harmful substances, including Dimethylpolysiloxane; a silicon-based polymer used in various applications like lubricants, conditioning agents and defoamers to prepare chicken.
“Some also use Tertiary Butyl Hydroquinone (TBHQ), a chemical preservative so deadly, just five grams can kill a human being,” the lawmaker stated. He expressed worry that the practice has continued, despite previous resolutions and warnings, owing to alleged complicity on the part of regulatory agencies, weak enforcement, corruption and lack of public awareness.
Okafor, while briefing journalists, said following the resolution of the House, the relevant committees are committed to launching an extensive probe into the allegations, with a view to bringing it to a stop.
