Some fufu (fermented cassava paste) sellers are using detergent to speed up fermentation, a practice that has raised serious health concerns.
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A viral video exposing the act has sparked outrage, with many calling for stricter food safety measures. Farmers in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State admitted that adding detergent reduces fermentation time from eight days to just two or three, Grassroots Parrot reports.
While this helps speed up production, health experts warn that consuming detergent-laced fufu could cause nausea, vomiting, and long-term health complications like kidney damage.
Dr. Stephen Okoro, a medical expert, condemned the practice and suggested safer alternatives such as baking soda and scent leaf. The Rivers State Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture have also warned that those involved could face legal action.
Following the public outcry, the Rivers State Government has urged farmers to adopt safer methods and encouraged citizens to report offenders.
