The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), has raised a major health alarm, linking the surge in organ failure and heart disease—especially among young Nigerians—to the use of locally fabricated grinding machines.
FIIRO Director-General, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, issued a statement on Monday in Lagos revealing that recent medical trends appear to stem from the consumption of food processed by these substandard machines.
Backing this claim with scientific evidence, Dr. Tutuwa referenced a comprehensive assessment conducted by FIIRO researchers.
The study found that the metal discs in local grinders often shed dangerous levels of heavy metals into staple foods like elubo (yam, cassava flour), melon seeds, tomatoes, pepper and others.
Laboratory results confirmed the presence of toxic substances including lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel, which pose severe long-term health risks.
The research was conducted in Lagos metropolis where the use of the local grinding machine to process food items, especially in the markets, is rife.
The FIIRO boss noted that prolonged use of food contaminated with these metals may contribute to rising rates of cardiovascular diseases and organ failure, even among young adults.
She noted that contamination levels in some instances exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) safety standards, especially in areas with heavy traffic and industrial activities.
Tutuwa explained that heavy metals, though naturally occurring, become harmful due to bioaccumulation, non-degradability, and excessive concentration in the food chain, posing significant health risks.
She described cadmium contamination as a serious ecotoxicological concern due to its widespread industrial use.
To address the challenge, she said FIIRO has designed and fabricated a stainless-steel pepper grinding machine to reduce contamination risks.
According to her, 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.
The Director-General stressed that tackling this health crisis requires a three-pronged approach: stronger regulation, rigorous enforcement, and public awareness.
Without these measures, she warned, the nation will continue to face a rising tide of cancer and organ-related diseases linked to contaminated food.
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