The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has cautioned fruit sellers in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State against the use of calcium carbide to artificially ripen fruits, citing its harmful effects on human health.
The warning came on Friday during a sensitisation exercise organised by the agency following reports that some fruits in the area were suspected to have been ripened with the banned chemical.
Highlighting the dangers, NAFDAC’s Gombe State Coordinator, Pharmacist James Agada, explained that while fruits provide vital nutrients that boost immunity and prevent diseases, consuming artificially ripened produce could lead to severe health complications.
“Calcium carbide poses serious health risks to consumers. Our intervention seeks to protect public health by encouraging fruit sellers to adopt safe practices,” Agada said.