There is tension and public outcry over food safety in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State Capital, after the discovery by locals that some fufu sellers are using detergents to speed up cassava fermentation, Grassroots Parrot reports.
The revelation, accompanied by a viral video shared on social media, quickly sparked public outrage, particularly after being aired on a local radio station, Nigeria Info FM.
The exposé has led to widespread discussions on consumer health, regulatory oversight, and the role of government agencies such as the Ministry of Health and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
How the Practice Works
Farmers in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State revealed that adding detergent to cassava significantly accelerates the fermentation process, reducing the duration from the usual eight days to just two or three.
Josephine Eke, a farmer in Isu Community, explained the process:
“The cassava is peeled, cut into small pieces, washed, and soaked in water. Normally, it takes about eight days to ferment, but with detergent, it softens in two to four days.”
Another farmer, Chinyere Emeka, attributed the method to differences in soil composition and cassava varieties, stating:
“In the past, we didn’t do this. But now, some cassava is tougher, and detergent helps it ferment faster, making it easier to process for sale.”
Reports suggest that this practice is not limited to Rivers State, as similar incidents have been noted in other parts of Nigeria.
Public Reaction
Residents of Port Harcourt have expressed concern and outrage over the revelation.
“Now that I know people use detergents to ferment fufu, I’ll be more cautious about where I buy mine,” said a worried consumer.
“This is dangerous! They are putting everyone at risk and must stop immediately,” another resident lamented.
Some consumers have advised purchasing fufu from rural areas where traditional methods are still followed.
Medical Experts Weigh In
Health professionals have warned of the serious risks associated with consuming detergent-laced fufu.
Medical content creator Aproko Doctor (Dr. Chinonso Egemba) emphasized that detergents contain toxic chemicals that can harm human health and urged NAFDAC to intervene.
However, a NAFDAC representative clarified that the agency does not regulate unpackaged foods, placing enforcement responsibility on state health ministries.
READ ALSO: INVESTIGATION: Pregnant Women ‘Die Monthly’ In Kano Community Despite Modern Healthcare Facility
A medical practitioner, Dr. Stephen Okoro also linked the issue to the increasing cases of kidney failure.
“Many people don’t realize that detergents contain harmful chemicals that can damage the kidneys. This could be a contributing factor to the rising cases of kidney-related illnesses,” he said.
Dr. Okoro suggested using baking soda and scent leaf as safer alternatives for fermentation.
Government Response
In response to the public outcry, the Rivers State Ministry of Health issued a statement warning against the practice.
Dr. Ndubuisi Akpuh, Director of Public Health and Disease Control Services, cautioned that detergents contain harmful substances that can cause nausea, vomiting, and long-term health complications.
“The use of non-food substances in food processing violates food safety regulations. Anyone found engaging in this practice may face legal consequences,” he stated.
READ ALSO: Child Trafficking: Food Vendor Holds Kano Teenagers Captive in Ibadan
Similarly, the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture condemned the act and urged farmers to adopt safer methods.
In a statement signed by Director of Agriculture, Sunday Agada, the ministry recommended using warm water and proper fermentation techniques.
The statement encouraged the public to report offenders by calling 09033701806 or visiting the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture.
What Lies Ahead?
With heightened concerns over food safety, consumers and authorities are now questioning how many other food products may be processed using harmful chemicals.
As investigations continue, Nigerians are calling for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of the food they consume.