FG Warns Nigerians Against Using Dangerous Chemicals in Food

(Fruits. Photo Credit: FB/Coretvnews)
The Federal Government is warning food sellers and makers to stop using harmful chemical to prepare food.

Among the practices it named are calcium carbide to ripen fruit, paracetamol to soften meat, and detergents in cassava processing.

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Dr Kingsley Udeh raised the concern on Tuesday at the 2026 World Science Day for Peace and Development in Abuja.

Udeh also pointed to the use of unapproved chemicals to preserve beans and grains, and the illegal dye Sudan IV, which is sometimes added to palm oil.

He said such practices put public health at risk and erode trust in food products.

Citing WHO figures, he said foodborne illnesses affect about 866 million people globally each year and cause roughly 1.52 million deaths.

He said Nigeria records an estimated 50 million cases of food related illness and more than 53,000 deaths a year.

To tackle the problem, the government plans to deploy qualified food scientists and technologists, especially at the local government level.

Udeh said Nigeria produces about 3,000 food science graduates each year from 70 tertiary institutions, but there is no formal professional structure to put them to work in public service.

He said a professional cadre will be set up for them.

He also urged food businesses and regulators to hire registered professionals with valid practice licences.