The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians about the dangers of consuming fruits ripened with calcium carbide, labeling the practice a significant threat to public health.
Speaking at a one-day awareness programme on food quality standards held in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State on Monday, August 25, FCCPC Executive Chairman Mr. Olatunji Bello—represented by Director of Quality Assurance, Mrs. Nkechi Mba—condemned the growing sale of tainted and adulterated food products in local markets. He stressed that individuals involved in such harmful practices are endangering public safety and assured that they would face the full weight of the law.
Bello noted that the sensitisation event marks the beginning of a broader campaign to alert the public and deter violators. He emphasized that full enforcement of relevant laws has already begun, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to protecting consumer rights and welfare.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, Bello explained, “We continue to witness disturbing trends such as the artificial ripening of fruits using dangerous substances like calcium carbide, which contains toxic elements including arsenic and phosphorus. These pose grave health risks and undermine consumer confidence in the food supply.”
The FCCPC is working in partnership with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Consumers were urged to be cautious and inspect food products carefully before purchase.
Bello also revealed that ongoing market surveillance has led to several interventions by the FCCPC, including facility shutdowns, sanctions, and legal actions against violators of food safety standards.
During the event, FCCPC Director of Consumer and Business Education, Mr. Yahaya Kudan, emphasized that the sensitisation programme reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to educating consumers, vendors, farmers, and all players in the food distribution network.
The gathering was attended by key stakeholders including representatives from NAFDAC, SON, various federal and state ministries, as well as agricultural associations such as the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Yam Farmers Association, and Cassava Growers.
Calcium carbide is frequently used to accelerate fruit ripening, but it can leave behind harmful chemical residues. Consumers are advised to shop from reputable sources, avoid fruit with an unnaturally even color or chemical odor, wash produce thoroughly under running water, and peel thick-skinned fruits before eating.
