Healthy Eating Alert NAFDAC Issues Warning on Harmful Food Preservation Methods

National Agency For Food and Drugs Administration & Control – ARDnig

NAFDAC has warned Nigerians against using sniper (dichlorvos) and other chemicals for food preservation due to severe health risks. The Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye, highlighted that misuse of sniper can cause memory loss, reduced fertility, cancer, and other health issues. Since 2019, small volumes of sniper have been banned, with large volumes restricted to certified outlets. NAFDAC emphasizes the legality and safety of using approved bio-pesticides for food preservation. Consumers are advised to avoid vendors using harmful chemicals and report them to NAFDAC. The agency continues efforts to ensure safe practices and compliance among stakeholders.

NAFDAC’s Warning on Sniper Use

NAFDAC warns against using sniper and other chemicals to keep food fresh. Sniper is a chemical that traders often use to protect food, which can harm people’s health. Director General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, says sniper can cause health problems in both the short and long term. These problems include memory loss, reduced fertility, and even cancer.

The misuse of sniper for food preservation poses significant risks to human health. It’s crucial that we embrace safer alternatives like bio-pesticides to protect our well-being and ensure food safety,” said Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC.

Sniper Sale Restrictions

Since 2019, NAFDAC has banned the sale of small bottles of sniper (100 ml or less). Larger bottles (one litre) can only be sold at certified agrochemical shops. Mrs Adeyeye warns that using sniper can be deadly and is against the law. Rametu Momodu, Director of Veterinary Medicine at NAFDAC, says using pesticides on food is illegal and dangerous.

NAFDAC condemns use of sniper for food preservation

Health Risks of Sniper

Using sniper on food can make people sick. It can cause dizziness, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death. Even after washing, the chemicals remain on or in the food, which can harm health. Washing doesn’t remove the chemicals, so it’s not a safe solution.

Government’s Actions

NAFDAC is taking steps to stop the use of harmful chemicals on food. They’re educating people about the dangers and monitoring traders to ensure they follow the rules. Mrs Adeyeye says NAFDAC is committed to global safety standards and is phasing out dangerous pesticides. She understands the challenges farmers face but stresses the importance of safety.

Director General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye – ARDnig

Safer Alternatives

NAFDAC suggests using safer methods to keep food fresh, like bio-pesticides. Mrs Adeyeye says if food stays fresh for too long, it might be because of pesticide contamination, not freshness. NAFDAC urges traders to stop using illegal chemicals on food. Consumers should avoid buying from sellers who use harmful chemicals and report them to NAFDAC.

Conclusion

NAFDAC’s warning against using sniper (dichlorvos) for food preservation highlights the serious health risks associated with this chemical, such as cancer, memory loss, reduced fertility, and even death. The agency emphasizes that safer alternatives like bio-pesticides should be used instead. It is crucial for traders and consumers to avoid illegal chemicals and report any misuse to NAFDAC. By adhering to these guidelines, the public can ensure safer food consumption and better health outcomes. NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to monitor and educate stakeholders aim to protect public health and promote safer food preservation practices.