
NOA Oyo State, Nigeria — In a decisive move to safeguard public health, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), through its Director General Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, represented by Dr. Afolayan, Oyo State Director of NOA, has issued a stern warning against the use of harmful chemicals in food preservation.
This caution was delivered during a high-profile stakeholders’ sensitization program held at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan, under the theme “Campaign Against the Use of Dangerous Chemicals in the Preservation of Foods.”
Dr. Afolayan highlighted the alarming prevalence of hazardous preservatives in markets, identifying substances such as formalin for stockfish, hypo bleach for cassava, calcium carbide for plantains, and Snipper for beans and other grains.

These chemicals, often used for their preservative qualities, pose significant health risks, including cancer, kidney failure, infertility, and, in severe cases, death.
“The pervasive use of these harmful chemicals in food preservation has led to a surge in chronic illnesses and terminal diseases among our populace,” Dr. Afolayan stated.
“It is imperative that we address this issue head-on to protect the health and wellbeing of our citizens.”
The event featured a robust engagement with market stakeholders, where Dr. Afolayan emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing stringent measures against the use of harmful preservatives.
She reassured attendees that offenders would face serious consequences under the law.
Representing the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mrs. Damola Salami underscored the importance of adopting safer alternatives.
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She recommended the consumption of fresh, unpreserved foods and the use of bio-fertilizers, which are free from harmful effects on food taste and safety.
Mrs. Salami also addressed the critical need for adherence to withholding and re-entry periods in food preservation, practices often neglected, resulting in heightened exposure to toxic substances.
An interactive session followed the presentations, providing a platform for market men and women to engage directly with NOA and NAFDAC representatives.

This dialogue facilitated a deeper understanding of the risks associated with chemical preservatives and explored practical steps towards safer food handling practices.
Key stakeholders, including the Iyaloja of Ibadan, Alhaja Iswat Abiola Ameringun, and representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), lent their voices to the campaign, reinforcing the collective resolve to eliminate harmful practices in food preservation.
The NOA remains committed to educating the public on safe food practices and continues to collaborate with relevant agencies to promote public health and safety.
This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring that food items in Nigerian markets are safe for consumption, thereby protecting the health of millions.
[…] PUBLIC HEALTH: NOA Launches Campaign Against Harmful Food Preservatives in Ibadan […]