The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in the Ogun Area 1 Command has issued a warning to the public regarding the health risks associated with consuming smuggled frozen poultry products from Benin.
In an interview on Monday in Ota, the Command's Comptroller, Mr. James Ojo, emphasized the dangers highlighted by the World Health Organization, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. These organizations have pointed out that smuggled frozen poultry products can adversely affect health due to improper preservation methods and lack of regulatory oversight.
"The frozen poultry products smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin are preserved with chemicals and often lack proper regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of harmful chemicals being used for preservation," Ojo stated. "They may not meet the nutritional standards required for healthy consumption, and poor handling and preservation techniques can 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."
Ojo identified chemicals like formaldehyde among the preservatives used, which could cause acute and chronic health issues such as poisoning, cancer, and organ damage.
He urged smugglers to cease such activities, affirming that the Customs Service remains committed to preventing the entry of banned illicit goods into the country.
(NAN)
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