The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has issued a stark warning to the public about the dangers of consuming smuggled frozen poultry products. Mr. James Ojo, the command’s Comptroller, highlighted the serious health implications of these illicit goods in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Ota.
Health Risks Identified by Global Health Authorities
Ojo emphasized that esteemed organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) have all described the consumption of smuggled frozen poultry products as hazardous to human health.
Chemical Preservatives and Lack of Regulation
According to Ojo, the frozen poultry products smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin are often preserved with harmful chemicals. These products typically bypass proper regulatory oversight, significantly increasing the risk of dangerous substances being used in their preservation.
Nutritional Concerns and Health Implications
Furthermore, these smuggled products often fail to meet the nutritional standards necessary for healthy consumption. Poor handling and preservation techniques can degrade the nutritional quality of the meat, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies if consumed regularly. The use of unknown or banned chemicals in preserving smuggled poultry can also trigger severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Specific Chemicals and Associated Health Risks
Comptroller Ojo specifically mentioned chemicals like formaldehyde, a common preservative found in smuggled poultry. The use of such chemicals can cause both acute and chronic health issues, including poisoning, cancer, and organ damage. These substances pose a significant threat to public health, highlighting the need for vigilance and caution.
A Call to Action
Ojo strongly urged smugglers engaged in this illegal trade to cease their activities. The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to ensuring that banned goods do not enter the country, protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
The health risks associated with smuggled frozen poultry products are real and significant. As consumers, it is crucial to remain informed and cautious about the origins of the food we consume. Opting for locally sourced, regulated poultry products not only supports local farmers but also ensures that we are consuming safe and nutritious food.
Let us all contribute to safeguarding our health and that of our communities by making informed choices and rejecting smuggled goods. Stay safe, stay healthy!
