The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians against consuming fruits ripened with calcium carbide, describing the practice as extremely dangerous to human health.
Speaking on Monday, August 25, during a sensitization programme on food quality standards in Ado-Ekiti, the FCCPC’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Olatunji Bello — represented by Mrs. Nkechi Mba, Director of Quality Assurance — expressed deep concern over the increasing sale of adulterated and contaminated foods in Nigerian markets.
According to him:
“Such alarming trends include principally, the forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals such as calcium carbide, which contains trace amounts of arsenic and phosphorus — both highly toxic to humans. These practices not only endanger the lives of millions of Nigerians, but they also erode consumer trust and sabotage the integrity of our food systems.”
Bello revealed that the agency has commenced strict enforcement against offenders, working in collaboration with NAFDAC, SON, and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture. He further advised consumers to be cautious, buy from trusted sellers, wash fruits thoroughly, and avoid those with unnaturally uniform colors or a chemical smell.
The FCCPC also confirmed that it has shut down facilities, imposed sanctions, and prosecuted offenders found guilty of hazardous food practices.
