Reps probe contamination risks from locally-made grinding machines

The House of Representatives has called for an urgent investigation into the alleged contamination of food processed with locally fabricated grinding machines widely used in markets and food processing centres across the country.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved during plenary by the member representing Epe Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Wale Raji.

Leading the debate, the lawmaker said growing concerns had been raised by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi, over the potential health risks associated with the use of locally fabricated grinding machines for processing common food items.

According to him, the institute, through its Director-General, Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, warned that rising cases of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria could be linked to foods processed with such machines.

Raji said research findings cited by the institute “indicated that some locally manufactured grinding machines used in processing tomatoes, peppers, onions, melon seeds and other staple food items may contain traces of heavy metals such as lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium and manganese.”

Some of these substances, he said, were reportedly found in concentrations exceeding safety limits recommended by the World Health Organisation and the Food and Agriculture Organisation.

He noted that heavy metals are known to accumulate gradually in the human body and prolonged exposure has been associated with kidney failure, liver damage, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders and an increased risk of cancer

The lawmaker said the widespread use of locally fabricated grinding machines in markets and neighbourhood food processing centres across the country made the issue a matter of serious public health concern.

He also pointed out that “Nigeria is already grappling with a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular ailments and organ failure, which continue to place pressure on families and the healthcare system.”

Raji warned that if the allegations are confirmed, “millions of Nigerians could be exposed daily to toxic contaminants through commonly consumed foods.”

He also expressed concern over what he described as weak regulation and inadequate certification of locally fabricated food processing equipment, noting that failure to address the issue promptly could worsen public health outcomes and increase preventable deaths.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House resolved to investigate the claims and review existing regulatory mechanisms governing the fabrication and use of food processing equipment in the country, with a view to safeguarding public health and ensuring food safety standards are strictly enforced.

Culled from punch