House Probes Toxic Chemicals in Frozen Foods, Demands Agency Accountability

By Angel Ike

House of Representatives’ has moved to investigate the use of hazardous chemicals like formalin and embalming substances to preserve frozen foods in Nigeria.

This followed concerns raised by Chike Okafor at plenary about poisonous chemicals being used to extend the shelf life of frozen fish, meat and other perishables, posing serious health risks including cancer and developmental issues.

Okafor criticised regulatory agencies for failing to enforce food safety laws despite existing regulations like the food safety Bill (2023).

He warned that toxic preservatives continue to endanger consumers especially with imported frozen foods and unsafe restaurant practices.

The house mandated its committees on Nutrition and Food Security, NAFDAC,and Safety Standards to probe the issue

The house also called on Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and other agencies such as National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to explain their roles, and report back in six legislative weeks.