The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has intercepted truckloads of mangoes ripened with calcium carbide, a hazardous chemical that poses severe health risks to consumers.
Gombe State Coordinator of NAFDAC, Pharmacist James Agada, confirmed the seizure on Thursday, warning that the consumption of chemically ripened fruits could lead to life-threatening conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, liver damage, and heart complications.
“The use of calcium carbide to ripen fruits is extremely dangerous,” Agada stated. “It contains toxic impurities like arsenic, lead particles, and phosphorus, which are harmful to human health.”
Clampdown on Harmful Ripening Practices
Agada revealed that the contaminated mangoes were discovered in a shop at Hayan Dogon Ruwa in Billiri Local Government Area after continuous efforts to educate fruit traders on the dangers of artificial ripening.
“We have been engaging fruit traders and the public on the risks associated with chemically treated fruits. Despite our warnings, some still resort to using these harmful substances,” he said.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC Warns Against Using Calcium Carbide to Ripen Fruits
He further explained that artificially ripened fruits can be identified by their unnaturally uniform yellow color, powdery residue on the skin, darkened stems, and reduced shelf life. Unlike naturally ripened fruits, which develop brown or black spots and retain their natural aroma and flavor, carbide-treated fruits tend to lose their authentic taste and texture.
Public Caution and Strict Penalties
NAFDAC has urged consumers to be vigilant, especially during peak fruit seasons, and to avoid fruits that show signs of artificial ripening.
“We are intensifying surveillance and will not hesitate to take strict action against anyone found selling chemically ripened fruits,” Agada warned.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health, emphasizing that offenders would face legal consequences.