FCCPC Raises Alarm Over Fruits Ripened with Toxic Calcium Carbide

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has cautioned Nigerians against consuming fruits artificially ripened with calcium carbide, citing severe health risks.

Speaking at a sensitisation programme on food safety in Ado-Ekiti, the commission’s Chairman, Mr. Olatunji Bello—represented by the Director of Quality Assurance, Mrs. Nkechi Mba—warned that the chemical contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus, both highly toxic to humans.

Bello condemned the increasing sale of contaminated foods, stressing that such practices endanger millions of lives, weaken consumer trust, and undermine Nigeria’s food systems. He assured that the FCCPC has commenced strict enforcement, which includes regular market inspections, facility closures, sanctions, and prosecutions.

The commission also announced closer collaboration with NAFDAC, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Ministries of Health and Agriculture to strengthen food quality oversight.

The event drew participants from regulatory agencies, farmers’ groups, and consumer associations, with the FCCPC urging Nigerians to carefully inspect farm produce before purchase.