News Editor
By Julius Ezikel
The Rivers State Government Has Issued A Warning Against the use of detergent and other harmful chemicals in the Production of ‘Fufu’ Within The State.
Fufu, Rice, Is A Staple Food In Many Nigerian Households. It Is Made From Fermented Cassava And Pounded Into A Smooth, Stretchy Dough, Typically Served With Various Nigerian Soups.
In A Public Health Advisory Released In Port Harcourt, The State Ministry Of Health Raised Concerns Over Reports From A Local Radio Station Indicating That Some Producers Were Adding Detergent To Fufu To Speed Up Processing And Increase Profit Margins.
The Advisory, Signed By The Director Of Public Health And Disease Control, Dr. Ndubisi Akpuh, On Behalf Of The Commissioner For Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, Emphasized The Severe Health Risks Associated With This Practice And Declared It Strictly Prohibited.
The Statement Warned That Detergents Contain Harmful Chemicals That Can Cause Poisoning, Leading To Symptoms Such As Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal Pain, And Diarrhea. Long-Term Consumption Can Result In Severe Damage To Vital Organs, Including The Liver, Kidneys, And Lungs.
Additionally, Detergent Chemicals Can Cause Internal Bleeding, Ulcers, And Irritation In The Digestive System.
Some Even Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Substances That May Lead To Reproductive Health Issues And An Increased Risk Of Chronic Illnesses, Including Cancer.
The Ministry Highlighted That Using Non-Food-Grade Substances In Food Production Violates Both National And International Food Safety Regulations. Offenders Could Face Legal Consequences, Including Fines, Business Closures, Or Imprisonment.
The Advisory Urged Food Producers To Use Only Approved Food-Grade Ingredients And Adhere To Best Practices In Food Hygiene And Safety.
Consumers Were Also Encouraged To Stay Vigilant And Report Any Suspicious Food Processing Activities To Health Authorities.
The Ministry Pledged To Collaborate With Other Regulatory Agencies To Strengthen Monitoring And Enforcement Efforts, Ensuring Compliance With Food Safety Standards.
It Called On Everyone To Take Collective Responsibility In Safeguarding Public Health And Reiterated The Message.
