The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians over the consumption of fruits artificially ripened with calcium carbide, describing the practice as hazardous to public health.
Speaking during sensitization programmes held in Ekiti and Akwa Ibom States, FCCPC’s Executive Chairman Olatunji Bello, represented at the events by senior officials, explained that calcium carbide contains toxic substances such as arsenic and phosphorus, which pose serious health risks when ingested.
According to the Commission, such harmful practices not only endanger lives but also erode consumer trust in the food system. The FCCPC said it has begun full enforcement actions which include market surveillance, shutting down non-compliant facilities, imposing sanctions, and prosecuting offenders.
The agency also announced collaborations 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 curb the menace.
Consumers were urged to remain vigilant, learn how to recognize artificially ripened fruits, and report suspected cases. FCCPC further encouraged Nigerians to demand transparency from food vendors and to prioritize safety over convenience.
“The Commission will not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law on anyone engaging in adulteration and forced fruit ripening,” Bello warned.