Ondo varsity don urges stricter action on food adulteration
By Boye Oyeyemi –
Professor Augustine Olusola, an expert in Toxicology and Environmental Biochemistry, has called for urgent measures to combat food adulteration in Nigeria.
He described adulterated food as a major contributor to chronic illnesses affecting the liver, kidneys, blood, and reproductive organs.
Prof. Olusola also emphasized the effectiveness of local herbs, urging their regulation and scientific testing to meet standards applied to conventional drugs.
The call was made during the 46th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, titled “From a Biochemist to a Toxicologist: My Odyssey.” The lecture highlighted the need to combine modern science with traditional remedies to address contemporary health challenges.
To curb food adulteration, Prof. Olusola recommended stronger enforcement of safety standards, increased public awareness, support for compliant producers, continuous research, and strict penalties for offenders.
He specifically urged agencies like NAFDAC and SON to enhance surveillance in open markets, particularly at retail points where adulteration is most common.
The Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Professor Olugbenga Ige, chaired the event and commended Prof. Olusola for his contributions to research and society.
