The House of Representatives has moved to probe claims of using harmful chemicals to preserve frozen foods in Nigeria.
This followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Chike Okafor, who represents Ehime Mbano/Ihitte Uboma/Obowo Federal Constituency of Imo State, during Wednesday’s plenary, on the 22nd of October, 2025.
For some time, health-focused non-governmental organisations have raised alarm over the reported use of dangerous chemicals such as formalin, sodium hydroxide, snipers, kerosene, and carbide to preserve frozen fish, prawns, shrimp, meat, and other perishable foods sold in markets across the country.
Findings from regulatory agencies, medical experts, and media investigations have revealed that substances meant for embalming corpses, industrial use, or fruit ripening are now being applied to extend the lifespan of perishable food items.
The Nigerian Medical Association has warned that exposure to these chemicals can lead to serious health complications, including autism in children, cancer, organ failure, and other life-threatening conditions.
Raising the motion, Okafor decried the widespread and unsafe use of such toxic substances in food preservation.
He stated, “The House is concerned that 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 de-foamers) to prepare chicken.
“Some also use Tertiary Butyl Hydroquinone, a chemical preservative so deadly that just five grams can kill a human being.”
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He expressed concern that agencies responsible for monitoring food safety have been accused of negligence and corruption, allowing the illegal act to continue despite repeated warnings and previous legislative resolutions.
Okafor said the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, guided by the Nigeria Food Safety Bill 2023 and with support from agencies such as NAFDAC, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Federal Ministry of Health, would intensify efforts to protect citizens’ health.
Following the motion’s adoption, the House directed the Federal Ministries of Health, Agriculture and Food Security, NAFDAC, SON, and other relevant agencies to appear before the investigative committee to “Provide valued information on their effort to curb the dangerous trend.”
It also tasked its Committees on Nutrition and Food Security, NAFDAC, and Safety Standards to “Conduct an investigative hearing on the alleged use of harmful chemicals as preservatives of frozen foods and importation of frozen foods preserved with carcinogenic substances and report back to the House within six legislative weeks.”