During a food safety enforcement operation at an Oyo town market, the Oyo State Government stopped and confiscated chemically ripened fruits. 

It stated that it is still a component of continuous initiatives to shield locals from the risks associated with improper food practices. After receiving an anonymous tip, representatives from the State Ministry of Health's Department of Food, Water, and Laboratory Services conducted the operation on Friday. 

News reporters in Ibadan, the state capital, were given access to a statement that was released by Dotun Oyelade, the state commissioner for information. Approximately twelve baskets of chemically ripened mangoes were seized during the practice.

The fruits were ready to be sold to the general public who were not expecting them. Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Commissioner for Health, cautioned locals to be wary of the origins of the food they eat during the enforcement exercise.

“The use of chemicals to preserve or enhance food items poses serious health risks,” she cautioned.

The commissioner revealed that the ministry had been receiving more and more allegations of some food vendors engaging in sharp practices, such as using dangerous chemicals to speed up the ripening of produce. 

She stated that the ministry had received reliable intelligence that served as the basis for the interception.

“The mandate of the Ministry of Health is to ensure the safety and well-being of the people of Oyo State.

“Based on credible information received, our officers moved in immediately and intercepted these chemically ripened fruits before they got to consumers,” she said.

According to Ajetunmobi, some vendors use chemicals to soak unripe and immature mangoes, making them appear ripe in a matter of hours. 

Even though these fruits might not be harmful right away, she cautioned that eating them frequently could generate a buildup of chemicals in the body that could cause cancer and other long-term health issues.

Source