The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians about the dangers of using harmful chemicals to preserve food items. The agency highlighted the risks associated with dichlorvos, a chemical often used by traders to prevent food spoilage.
In a statement, NAFDAC Director General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye reiterated that the sale of small volume dichlorvos (100 ml or less), commonly sold as Sniper®, has been banned since 2019. The sale of larger volumes (one litre) is restricted to certified agrochemical outlets.
Prof. Adeyeye stressed the toxicity of dichlorvos to human health, warning that its use can have fatal consequences. This response follows a viral video showing the use of dangerous chemicals to preserve food items such as beans, stockfish, and crayfish. Adeyeye urged traders and merchants to cease using unauthorised chemicals on food intended for human consumption.
“The misuse of dichlorvos poses significant risks to human health, with both short-term and long-term consequences,” said Adeyeye. “Long-term exposure can lead to severe health issues, including developmental abnormalities in offspring, memory loss, reduced fertility, and potential carcinogenic effects.”
She emphasized the need for safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with dichlorvos exposure and advocated for alternative methods of food preservation. Bio-pesticides were mentioned as a safer option compared to dichlorvos.
Adeyeye also noted that food remaining unspoiled for an extended period might indicate pesticide contamination rather than freshness unless stored in a refrigerator. This underscores the importance of adhering to proper food safety practices to protect public health.
