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Senate Moves To Criminalise Ripening Of Fruits With Chemicals
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9/24/2025, 5:00:00 PM
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6/3/2025, 5:00:00 PM
By Eniekenemi Atoukudu -
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The Senate has expressed concern over the increasing use of harmful substances—particularly calcium carbide—by fruit vendors to artificially ripen fruits. In response, it has resolved to amend existing legislation to criminalize the practice. Lawmakers described the use of such dangerous chemicals as a serious public health hazard affecting consumers nationwide and called for a thorough investigation into the trend. This decision follows a motion presented by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani (Ebonyi South), who urged immediate intervention by relevant regulatory bodies. As a result, the Senate mandated the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to probe the growing incidence of the dangerous practice. Senator Ani highlighted the severe health risks posed by the use of toxic ripening agents, noting links to cancer, kidney failure, and other critical illnesses. He warned that continued exposure could have devastating consequences for public health. The Senate also recommended tougher penalties for violators to deter the practice and protect the health of Nigerians. The motion has been referred to the Senate Committees on Health and Agriculture for further legislative consideration.
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