The Executive Director of the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), Prof. Lateef Sanni, has said grinding machines fabricated from corrosive metals constitute health hazards and potentially carcinogenic when in contact with food.
The ED stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, saying most grinding machines used in markets were fabricated from corrosive metals, which he described as hazardous.
He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to withdraw and replace them with machines with stainless steel models, adding that food processing equipment should meet safety standards to reduce exposure to harmful contaminants.
“All the grinding machines in the country are made of steel and galvanized iron. They are corrosive and may contribute to rising cases of cancer and other diseases,” he said.
These machines are found in different crannies and corners across Nigerian cities and local communities that come handy for housewives especially during festivals and other major social activities such as naming, burial, and birthday ceremonies, among others. Its usage dates back to more than three decades ago.
He said food preparation surfaces must be made of stainless steel to prevent contamination and safeguard public health across communities, adding that Nigeria had a pool of nutritionists and food scientists who should be recruited and deployed across local government areas to monitor food safety practices.
