Deadly Palm Oil: Traders Poison Nigerians for Profit

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The Hidden Dangers of Adulterated Palm Oil in Nigeria

Palm oil, a staple in Nigerian households and a key ingredient in traditional dishes, has become a silent threat due to the widespread practice of adulteration. Traders across Nigeria are mixing cooking oil with industrial dyes, water, and harmful chemicals to maximize profits, putting millions of Nigerians at risk of serious health issues, including organ damage and cancer.

One such victim is Remi Odumola, who experienced a harrowing ordeal when she used adulterated palm oil for her husband’s favorite soup, efo riro. The oil, which appeared normal at first, began to crackle aggressively and emitted an unusual aroma. Her husband later suffered from severe stomach pain, and the soup turned sticky and unappetizing. Odumola realized too late that the oil she had purchased was not genuine.

This is not an isolated incident. Stories of adulterated palm oils have become common among many Nigerian families. PUNCH Healthwise investigations revealed that the practice is rampant in major markets like Otto Market in Oyingbo and Mile 12 in Kosofe Local Government Area. These markets are filled with drums and jerrycans of oil, often contaminated with dyes and other harmful substances.

The Process of Adulteration

The process of adulterating palm oil begins with the addition of water, which is cheap and difficult to detect immediately. This is followed by the use of dyes and colorants to make the oil appear fresher and more vibrant. Some traders even add iron-based substances to deepen the red hue. Sudan III and azo dyes, which are banned for food use in many countries, are commonly used in Nigeria.

According to experts, these dyes are not only unsafe but also pose serious health risks. They can cause digestive problems, allergic reactions, and even cancer. The chemical properties of these dyes allow them to travel through the bloodstream and accumulate in organs such as the liver, brain, and heart.

The Supply Gap and Its Consequences

Nigeria requires over 3 million tonnes of palm oil annually but produces only 1.4 to 2.5 million tonnes, creating a significant supply gap. This shortage forces the country to rely heavily on imports, particularly from neighboring Benin Republic. However, this reliance has led to increased instances of industrial malpractice.

Joe Onyiuke, the National President of the Oil Palm Growers Association of Nigeria (OPGAN), described the situation as a "national disaster." He highlighted that the competition between domestic, commercial, and export markets has worsened the shortage, pushing criminals into the adulteration business. OPGAN has proposed a national replanting plan to address this issue, aiming to cultivate 1.5 million hectares across 27 oil palm-producing states over the next five years.

The Role of Consumers and Traders

Consumers also play a role in perpetuating the problem. Many buyers insist on purchasing extremely reddish palm oil, believing it to be the original, premium grade. This demand drives traders to add dyes and other chemicals to meet consumer expectations.

Traders like Lawan Ahmed and Aunty Vero confirmed that adulteration is a routine practice. They explained that some imported palm oil arrives already compromised, and once it reaches the market, it is diluted or colored to meet customer demands. This cycle continues, with each new trader becoming part of the system, passing the contaminated product further down the supply chain.

Health Implications and Consumer Awareness

Experts warn that consuming adulterated palm oil can lead to severe health consequences, including organ damage, cancer, and other chronic diseases. Prof. Olufemi Fasanmade, a consultant endocrinologist, emphasized the dangers of unapproved chemicals in edible oils. He stressed the importance of vigilance among consumers and urged NAFDAC to intensify market inspections.

Prof. Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, President of the Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI), described food adulteration as one of the most common threats to food safety in developing countries. He warned that the use of synthetic dyes and colorants in palm oil poses serious health hazards, including organ damage and increased cancer risk.

James Oloyede, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, condemned the practice, stating that those involved are only interested in maximizing profit at the expense of people's health. He highlighted the carcinogenic effects of azo and Sudan dyes, which can cause tumours, liver and kidney damage, and cardiovascular diseases.

Regulatory Challenges and Calls for Action

Despite the growing concerns, regulatory agencies have been slow to act. The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency declined to comment on the issue, while NAFDAC remained unresponsive. Experts call for urgent action, including strengthened enforcement, improved testing capabilities, and increased consumer awareness.

In conclusion, the widespread adulteration of palm oil in Nigeria poses a significant threat to public health. Consumers must remain vigilant, and regulatory bodies must take decisive steps to ensure the safety of the food supply. Only through collective efforts can this crisis be addressed and prevented from worsening.