The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), Lagos, has raised concerns that the rising cases of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria may be linked to foods processed using locally fabricated grinding machines.
The institute’s Director-General, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, cited research showing that locally made grinders used for tomatoes, peppers, onions, melon seeds, and other food items particularly in Lagos contain traces of heavy metals such as lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and manganese, as well as non-heavy metals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.
“Prolonged consumption of food contaminated with these metals may contribute to increasing cases of cardiovascular diseases and organ failure, even among young adults,” Dr. Tutuwa warned, noting that contamination in some areas exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) safety limits, especially in regions with heavy traffic and industrial activity.
She explained that heavy metals, though naturally occurring, become harmful due to bioaccumulation and excessive concentration in the food chain. Cadmium, in particular, is a serious ecotoxicological concern due to its widespread industrial use.
Dr. Tutuwa emphasized that stronger regulation, enforcement, and public awareness are crucial to reducing the burden of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and organ failure nationwide.
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