FIIRO warns local grinding machines causing organ, heart diseases in Nigeria
The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), has raised alarms over a potential link between rising cases of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria and the use of locally fabricated grinding machines.
The institute’s Director-General, Dr Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, disclosed in a statement that research conducted by FIIRO indicates that many locally made grinders, used to process tomatoes, peppers, onions, melon seeds, and other foods, contain heavy metals such as lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and manganese. Non-heavy metals including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron were also detected.
According to Dr Tutuwa, prolonged consumption of foods contaminated with these metals may increase the risk of cardiovascular illnesses and organ failure, even among young adults.
She noted that contamination levels in some areas exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) safety standards, particularly in locations with heavy traffic or industrial activity.
She explained that while heavy metals naturally occur in the environment, they become harmful through bioaccumulation and excessive concentrations in the food chain, posing serious health risks. Cadmium contamination, she added, is of particular concern due to its widespread industrial use.
To address the problem, FIIRO has designed a stainless-steel pepper grinding machine to minimise contamination risks.
The institute also plans to collaborate with the National Assembly, the Office of the First Lady, and other stakeholders to promote safer alternatives through mass production, distribution, monitoring, and maintenance.
Dr Tutuwa emphasised the need for stronger regulations, strict enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to reduce exposure to harmful metals and curb the growing burden of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and organ failure nationwide.
