The Nigerian Senate has expressed deep concern over the widespread use of hazardous chemicals—particularly calcium carbide—by fruit vendors to artificially ripen fruits, describing the practice as a serious public health risk.
In a motion presented by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani, representing Ebonyi South, lawmakers condemned the growing trend and warned that the continued consumption of chemically-ripened fruits could end+nger the lives of millions of Nigerians. He called for immediate intervention by relevant health and agricultural regulatory bodies.
Following deliberations, the Senate resolved to initiate amendments to existing laws in order to criminalise the use of toxic substances in fruit ripening.
Lawmakers also directed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), as well as the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, to urgently investigate the scale of the practice and take necessary enforcement actions.
Describing the situation as an “emerging health crisis,” the Senate stressed the need for greater public awareness and stricter monitoring of food safety standards across local markets.
The resolution underscores the Senate’s growing commitment to protecting consumers and strengthening food safety regulations in Nigeria.
