Bukola Afeni
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the use of snipper for food Preservation.
The agency made emphasis on the dangers associated with dichlorvos, a chemical commonly utilised by traders to safeguard food from spoilage.
The Director General of the agency, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye revealed that in a press statement that the sale of small volume dichlorvos (100 ml or less), sold as Sniper® has been banned since 2019 while the sale of the large volume (one litre) is limited to certified agrochemicals outlets.
Adeyeye, urged traders and merchants to desist from using unauthorised chemicals on food meant for human consumption.
She said the misuse of dichlorvos poses significant risks to human health, manifesting in both short-term and long-term consequences.
“Long-term exposure can result in severe health implications, including developmental abnormalities in offspring, memory loss, reduced fertility, and potential carcinogenic effects.
“These adverse effects highlight the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with dichlorvos exposure.
“Food remaining unspoiled for an extended period might indicate pesticide contamination rather than freshness, unless stored in the refrigerator.”
NAFDAC has also implemented several initiatives such as stakeholders’ sensitization meetings on restricting the direct application of dichlorvos on grains and foodstuffs and thorough laboratory testing to ensure pesticide residues do not exceed maximum limits for both in-country consumption and for exports, and routine monitoring of stakeholders is also conducted to ensure compliance.”
The Director of Veterinary Medicine and Applied Products (VMAP), Dr. Rametu Momodu, explained that using such chemicals, especially pesticides, to protect grains and prevent beans from having weevils is not an approved practice.
“There are approved pesticides for use as fumigants, which should be used according to the manufacturer’s specifications on the product label, these products should not be applied directly to food due to their inherent dangers to human health.
“Consuming food contaminated with dichlorvos can cause dizziness, vomiting, difficulty breathing, tremors, and convulsions, and in some cases, can lead to coma and death.
“Washing the food does not mitigate the risk, as the harmful substance would have already soaked into it. She emphasised that the Agency cannot recommend washing as a solution, as it gives a false sense of security.” she said.
She further warned that grain merchants, market vendors, and farmers should follow manufacturer guidelines and stop applying dichlorvos to beans and other foodstuffs, and that consumers should report vendors who are known for this practices to visit the nearest NAFDAC office for appropriate sanctions.
“It should be used as intended, either as a field crop treatment or a fumigant, to ensure food safety.”
