NAFDAC warns public against eating processed rice seedlings

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned the people in Jigawa against buying treated rice seedlings meant for planting for consumption. The NAFDAC Director in the state, Malam Abduljalal Manzo, issued the warning during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Dutse on Thursday.

Manzo said NAFDAC had  carried out a mop up operation in the area following reports by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) on the processing and sale of treated rice seedlings in Kazaure Local Government Area. He said that the mop up revealed that some market women were processing rice seedlings and selling to the public for consumption.

Manzo said that two suspects involved in the activity were arrested and handed over to the agency by men of NSCDC. “The NAFDAC laboratory analysis proved that there is serious accumulation of pesticide used in the treatment of the rice since it was meant for sowing.

“NAFDAC is warning the people selling this treated rice to stop the act because it is very dangerous and poisonous to health; it can kill instantly or even have a long time effect on the people.

“Lack of education is the main reason why most people are ignorant of the dangers inherent in patronising and consuming such kind of food.

“The agency will not allow such people to operate in the society because they are merchants of death,’’ he said. Manzo said the agency was collaborating with the police, local governments,  health officials and the emirate councils to mop up the treated rice and other unwholesome products with a view to safeguarding the lives of the people. (NAN)