The House of Representatives has launched a probe into the alarming use of dangerous chemicals, including corpse-embalming substances, to preserve frozen foods like fish, meat, and prawns in Nigerian markets.
This decision follows a motion by Hon. Chike Okafor, who highlighted public outcry over the use of formalin, sniper insecticide, kerosene, and sodium hydroxide as food preservatives. These chemicals, he noted, are linked to serious health risks including cancer, organ damage, and developmental disorders like autism in children.
The investigation will focus on the alleged importation of frozen foods preserved with these carcinogenic substances. Lawmakers have also summoned relevant agencies, including NAFDAC and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture, to explain their efforts to curb this lethal practice and report back within six weeks.
