The Senate has expressed serious concern over the increasing use of harmful chemicals, especially calcium carbide, by fruit vendors to artificially ripen fruits.
The lawmakers have resolved to amend existing laws to make such practices criminal offences.
Describing the use of hazardous substances for ripening fruits as a significant public health threat to consumers nationwide, the Senate called for deeper investigations into the alarming practice.
The decision came after a motion sponsored by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani (Ebonyi South), who urged urgent action from relevant regulatory bodies.
The Senate resolved to empower the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) alongside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to investigate the rising cases of this dangerous practice.
Senator Ani emphasized that the use of toxic chemicals for ripening fruits has resulted in severe health issues such as cancer, kidney failure, and other life-threatening diseases.
He warned that continuous exposure to these chemicals could have extensive negative impacts on public health.
To deter offenders and protect Nigerians’ health, the Senate recommended harsher penalties.
The motion has been referred to the Senate Committees on Health and Agriculture for further legislative review and action.
