POISON ON OUR PLATES: The Devastating Consequences of Food Safety Neglect and the Path Forward

.Perspertives with Dr. Iyke Ezeugo

The Hidden Dangers on Our Tables

Nigeria is a nation blessed with abundant natural resources, a diverse climate, and fertile soil that should ensure a thriving agricultural sector. Yet, paradoxically, this potential is marred by a deeply troubling reality:  the food on our plates is often laced with toxic substances that pose severe risks to our health. The widespread use of harmful chemicals in agriculture and food processing, combined with lax enforcement of safety standards, has led to a situation where what should nourish us is, in fact, poisoning us.

The Silent Killers: Chemicals in Our Food

The use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and preservatives has become pervasive in Nigerian agriculture. These chemicals, while effective in boosting crop yields, dealing with weeds and pest issues, and prolonging shelf life, come with a hidden cost:  their residues remain in the food we consume, leading to serious health issues.

1. Fertilizers: Synthetic fertilizers often contain harmful substances like cadmium, nitrates, and heavy metals. These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, leading to kidney damage, cancer, and other serious health problems.

2. Herbicides and Pesticides: Chemicals such as glyphosate, atrazine, and dichlorvos are commonly used in Nigeria to control weeds and pests. However, these substances are known to cause a range of health issues, including endocrine disruption, reproductive problems, and cancer.

3. Preservatives: Sodium benzoate, potassium bromate, and other chemical preservatives used in food processing are linked to various health risks, including allergic reactions, neurological disorders, and even cancer.

Natural Alternatives: A Safer Path Forward

Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to these harmful chemicals that can be used to maintain agricultural productivity while safeguarding public health. Organic fertilizers, such as compost and manure, enrich the soil without leaving toxic residues. Biological pest control methods, including the use of beneficial insects and natural repellents, offer effective ways to protect crops without resorting to harmful chemicals. Preservatives derived from natural sources, such as vinegar, salt, and ascorbic acid, can extend the shelf life of food without posing health risks.

The Deadly Link: Food Safety, Public Health, and Life Expectancy

The health of a nation is inextricably linked to the safety of its food supply. In Nigeria, the alarming rise in diseases, deteriorating public health, and low life expectancy are stark reflections of the neglected state of food safety. Numerous studies have established the connection between contaminated food and the prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, and heart disease. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s failure to enforce stringent food safety regulations has exacerbated these public health crises.

Empirical Evidence of a Grim Reality

A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that foodborne diseases are responsible for approximately 33 million cases of illness annually in Africa, with Nigeria contributing a significant portion of these statistics. Contaminated food, laden with harmful chemicals and pathogens, is a primary culprit behind the surge in non-communicable diseases, which have become the leading cause of mortality in the country.

For example, countries like Japan and Norway, which boast some of the highest life expectancies globally, have stringent food safety protocols. Japan, with a life expectancy of 84 years, emphasizes rigorous testing for pesticide residues, food additives, and preservatives before any product reaches the market. Norway, with a life expectancy of 83 years, has implemented strict regulations on the use of chemicals in agriculture, prioritizing organic farming and natural pest control methods. These nations have recognized that the health of their populations is directly tied to the quality of the food they consume and have taken proactive measures to safeguard it.

The Nigerian Context: A Glaring Contrast

In contrast, Nigeria, with a life expectancy of just 55 years, has yet to implement comprehensive food safety measures. The widespread use of harmful pesticides, herbicides, and preservatives in agriculture and food processing, coupled with inadequate monitoring and enforcement, has left the population vulnerable to a host of diseases. The absence of a robust food safety framework is not just a regulatory failure; it is a public health catastrophe that is costing lives and undermining the country’s development.

The Path Forward: Learning from Global Best Practices

To reverse this trend, Nigeria must look to countries with higher life expectancies and robust food safety systems as models. Adopting stricter regulations on chemical use in agriculture, enhancing food safety testing, and promoting organic farming are essential steps that can significantly improve public health outcomes. The government must recognize that ensuring food safety is not merely a matter of policy; it is a moral imperative that directly impacts the well-being and longevity of its citizens. Establishment of a dedicated and empowered institute for organic agriculture and food safety may help if the institute runs efficiently.

A Call to Action

The dangers posed by unsafe food are real, immediate, and devastating. The time has come for Nigeria to take bold and decisive action to protect its citizens from the poison on their plates. This means not only regulating the use of harmful chemicals but also promoting and supporting organic agriculture, which prioritizes the health of both people and the environment. It means enforcing stringent food safety standards and holding those who violate them accountable. Most importantly, it means recognizing that the health and future of our nation depend on the quality of the food we consume.

By taking these steps, Nigeria can begin to reverse the damage done, improve public health, and ensure that the food on our plates truly nourishes rather than harms us. The path forward is clear, but it requires the collective will of the government, industry, and citizens alike. Only then can we hope to build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

Dr. Iyke Ezeugo is a Forensic Researcher, a Social Impact Expert, and Satirist who uses his perspectives and parodies to challenge the status quo, spark debates, and inspire fresh perspectives on public affairs through insightful intellectual injections.