It appears Nigerians now need microscopes to eat fufu in the country, as one of our beloved ‘swallows’ might come with a surprise bonus.
Thanks to Dr Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, we now know that some fufu makers have taken it upon themselves to double as industrial chemists, tossing in detergent, bleach, and bar soap for that extra fresh taste.
Do you know what some people are adding to make fufu? NAFDAC, over to you! pic.twitter.com/w0GPuYFhZK
— Dr. Chinonso Egemba (@aproko_doctor) February 19, 2025
According to him, these chemicals, when ingested, pose serious health risks, including damage to vital organs like the liver, lungs, and intestines.
Given the widespread consumption of fufu in Nigeria, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) needs to immediately investigate these claims and take decisive action to regulate the production of foods more effectively.
Food safety is a fundamental right of every Nigerian, and it is the responsibility of regulatory agencies to ensure that what citizens consume meets health and safety standards.
While NAFDAC has made efforts in the past to crack down on unsafe food products, this issue reinforces the need for stronger surveillance, stricter enforcement, and public sensitisation.
Beyond government intervention, there is a need for citizens to take health advisories seriously and be vigilant about the food they consume.
While it may be difficult to verify the processing methods of fufu, individuals should seek safer alternatives, such as ensuring they buy from trusted sources or opting for self-preparation where possible.
Also, Nigerians should demand accountability from the authorities. This is where NAFDAC comes in. Immediate investigations, public warnings, and strict penalties for offenders are needed.
And to every Nigerian, shine your eyes.
If your fufu looks whiter than an influencer’s Instagram filter, smells too fresh, or foams when mixed with water, please rethink your meal.
Ensure you buy from trusted sources, or better yet, prepare your own.
The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. If left unchecked, the consumption of chemically tainted fufu could lead to a public health crisis.
Photo source: Kwameghana
