NAFDAC warns Nigerians against the consumption of calcium carbide-ripened fruits

Calcium carbide is a chemical compound that is often used to ripen fruits artificially. It is a white, powdery substance that reacts with water to produce acetylene gas. Acetylene gas causes fruits to ripen quickly, but it also has health risks.

In Nigeria, the use of calcium carbide to ripen fruits is widespread. This is because it is a cheap and effective way to speed up the ripening process.

Consumption of such fruits may lead to cancer, organ failure, skin damage, and other serious health complications. Let’s be vigilant and choose naturally ripened fruits for our well-being, says Prof Mojisola Adeyeye; Director General of NAFDAC

Prof Moji proceeded further to state how to recognize these fruits; artificially ripened fruits lack the natural aroma, flavor, and nutritional benefits of naturally ripened ones.

Identifying artificially ripened fruits is crucial – yellow fruits with dark stems and traces of powdery substances may indicate the use of calcium carbide.

Let’s be watchful and also trust God to keep us safe from the hands of vendors who don’t care about the consequences of their actions