*The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control warns fruit dealers against using chemicals to ripen fruits, urging consumers to be vigilant and avoid buying such fruits ripened with chemicals due to inherent health risks

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

In a bid to safeguard the health of citizens, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, in Adamawa State, North-East Nigeria again, has warned fruit dealers against using chemicals to ripen fruits. NAFDAC also urged consumers to be cautious against eating such chemical-ripened fruits

Gonzuk Bedima, NAFDAC Coordinator in Adamawa State, issued the warning Thursday, February 27, 2025, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, in Yola, the state capital.

The agency’s top official explained that the most commonly used chemical for ripening fruits, particularly bananas and oranges, is calcium carbide, which is mainly used in welding.

Bedima also averred that the chemical could cause cancer in any part of the body.

NAFDAC as well noted that the agency previously, had sensitised the leadership of fruit sellers, and plans to continue this campaign, especially with the approach of fasting season, when several consumers purchase fruits to eat.

He further urged consumers to be vigilant and avoid buying fruits ripened with chemicals due to the health risks.

According to NAFDAC, any fruits treated with calcium carbide often appear very ripe on the outside but are not ripened inside.

Bedima explained: 鈥淚f you suspect such fruits, avoid buying them, as they are dangerous to your health.”

The Coordinator of NAFDAC in Adamawa State, therefore, encouraged Nigerians to report any infractions to NAFDAC to prevent others from consuming chemical-ripened fruits in the country.