NAFDAC WARNS SOKOTO TRADERS AGAINST USING CALCIUM CARBIDE TO RIPEN FRUITS

Authorities caution that unsafe ripening methods could harm consumers, especially during Ramadan.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned fruit sellers in Sokoto against using Calcium Carbide to hasten fruit ripening. Coordinator Abdulsalam Lawal said the practice poses serious health risks, including kidney damage, cancer, hypertension, and other severe illnesses.

Lawal noted that only welders are permitted to use Calcium Carbide for industrial purposes and that NAFDAC will increase market surveillance to prevent misuse. Fruits commonly ripened with carbide include mango, banana, pawpaw, and watermelon.

Alhaji Bello Danda, Chairman of the Association of Fruit and Vegetable Marketers in Sokoto, demonstrated safe ripening methods and urged traders to adopt hygienic practices, warning that violators would face penalties. The awareness campaign, which began on February 16, targets markets across Sokoto State.