The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has issued a warning to the public about the health risks associated with consuming smuggled frozen poultry products.
The command’s Comptroller, Mr. James Ojo, highlighted these concerns during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Ota.
Ojo emphasized that the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) have all indicated that smuggled frozen poultry can have severe health repercussions.
Ojo stated, “The frozen poultry products smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin were preserved with chemicals and often lacked proper regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of harmful chemicals being used for preservation.”
He further explained that these products might not meet the nutritional standards required for healthy consumption, and poor handling and preservation techniques could degrade the nutritional quality of the meat, leading to potential deficiencies when consumed regularly.
“The use of unknown or banned chemicals in preserving smuggled poultry can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals,” he added.
The comptroller identified some of these hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde and other preservatives, which could cause acute and chronic health issues, including poisoning, cancer, and organ damage.
Ojo also urged smugglers involved in this illicit trade to cease their activities, stating that the Customs would remain vigilant in preventing banned goods from entering the country.
