Nigerian Lawmakers Launch Probe into Harmful Chemicals Used to Preserve Frozen Foods

The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the alleged use of harmful chemicals for preserving frozen foods across the country.

The motion, raised by Hon. Chike Okafor, representing Ehime Mbano/Ihitte Uboma/Obowo Federal Constituency of Imo State, highlighted growing concerns over the use of substances such as formalin, sodium hydroxide, and carbide—chemicals typically used for embalming or industrial processes.

Health experts and the Nigerian Medical Association have warned that these substances can cause cancer, organ failure, and developmental disorders in children. Okafor also expressed alarm over the use of dimethylpolysiloxane and tertiary butyl hydroquinone—chemicals potentially lethal in small amounts—by some eateries.

In response, the House mandated its Committees on Nutrition and Food Security, NAFDAC, and Safety Standards to conduct a six-week investigation. Relevant agencies, including the Federal Ministries of Health and Agriculture, NAFDAC, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, are to provide updates on their actions to protect public health and curb the ongoing food safety threat.

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