The Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO), Lagos, has raised fresh concerns over the possible link between locally fabricated grinding machines and the growing incidence of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria.

 

The institute’s Director-General, Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, disclosed that research findings indicate that some locally made grinders used in processing tomatoes, peppers, onions, melon seeds, and other food items contain traces of harmful metals.

 

According to her, laboratory analyses revealed the presence of heavy metals such as lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and manganese. Non-heavy metals including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron were also detected.

 

“Prolonged consumption of food contaminated with these metals may contribute to increasing cases of cardiovascular diseases and organ failure, even among young adults,” Dr. Tutuwa warned.

 

She noted that contamination levels recorded in certain locations exceeded safety thresholds set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), particularly in areas with heavy vehicular traffic and industrial activities.

Dr. Tutuwa explained that while heavy metals occur naturally in the environment, they become dangerous when they accumulate in excessive concentrations within the food chain — a process known as bioaccumulation.

 

She highlighted cadmium as a particularly serious ecotoxicological threat due to its widespread industrial applications and long-term persistence in the environment.

 

Health experts warn that chronic exposure to heavy metals has been associated with increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, kidney damage, organ failure, and certain cancers.

The FIIRO Director-General emphasized the urgent need for stronger regulatory frameworks, strict enforcement of safety standards, and increased public awareness to reduce health risks nationwide.

 

She stressed that improving food processing standards and monitoring locally fabricated equipment could play a critical role in curbing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases across the country.

 

The findings have sparked renewed debate about food safety practices, environmental contamination, and the need for coordinated action between regulators, manufacturers, and public health authorities in Nigeria.