The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) has warned that increasing cases of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria may be associated with food processed using certain locally fabricated grinding machines.
The institute’s Director-General, Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists, referencing findings from research conducted by FIIRO scientists.
According to her, a detailed evaluation carried out in 2013 revealed that some locally manufactured grinding machines — commonly used to process tomatoes, pepper, onions, melon seeds, and other food items, particularly within Lagos metropolis — contained detectable levels of heavy metals. Identified substances included lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and manganese, alongside non-heavy metals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.
Dr Tutuwa explained that long-term consumption of food contaminated with these metals could contribute to a rise in cardiovascular conditions and organ damage, even among younger individuals.
She added that in certain locations — especially areas exposed to heavy vehicular traffic and industrial activity — contamination levels surpassed safety thresholds set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
She noted that while heavy metals occur naturally in the environment, their danger lies in their tendency to accumulate in biological systems, resist degradation, and concentrate within the food chain.
Cadmium, in particular, was highlighted as a significant ecotoxicological threat due to its widespread industrial applications.
As part of mitigation efforts, FIIRO has reportedly developed a stainless-steel pepper grinding machine aimed at minimising metal contamination during food processing.
The institute also intends to engage the National Assembly, the Office of the First Lady, and other stakeholders to facilitate large-scale production, distribution, monitoring, and maintenance of safer equipment.
Dr Tutuwa emphasised the need for stricter regulatory oversight, improved enforcement mechanisms, and heightened public awareness to reduce contamination risks and address the growing burden of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and organ failure across the country.
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