The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the dangers of using Dichlorvos, a chemical commonly sold under the brand name SNIPER, to preserve food.

NAFDAC emphasizes that this practice can lead to serious health problems, including cancer and even death.

The warning comes after a recent viral video showed people using dangerous chemicals to preserve food items like beans, stockfish, and crayfish.

NAFDAC specifically pointed out the risks of Dichlorvos, highlighting that the sale of small-sized Dichlorvos products (100ml or less) has been banned since 2019.

Larger quantities are only permitted for sale through authorized agrochemical outlets.

NAFDAC stressed the toxicity of Dichlorvos and its potential for fatal consequences.  Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency’s Director-General, urged people to stop using unauthorized chemicals on food meant for consumption.

She explained that Dichlorvos misuse poses significant health risks, with both short-term and long-term effects. Long-term exposure can lead to serious health problems in children born to exposed parents, memory loss, reduced fertility, and potentially cancer.