The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the consumption of forcefully ripened fruits, particularly calcium carbide, which contains toxic elements that pose severe health risks.

The warning was delivered during a one-day sensitisation programme on food quality standards organized by the agency in Ado-Ekiti.

FCCPC’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Olatunji Bello, condemned the growing sale of adulterated and contaminated foods in markets, describing it as a major risk to public health.

The FCCPC has already intervened in several cases through regular market surveys, leading to the shutdown of facilities, sanctions, and prosecution of offenders.

The agency is working closely with the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture to strengthen enforcement.