Prosecute people using paracetamol, bleach for food processing, Reps tell NAFDAC

The House of Representatives on Thursday called on National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to prosecute all the people arrested in connection with the use of paracetamol to sterilize meat and bleach to process cassava in Osun state.

The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Dozie Nwankwo.

In his lead debate, Hon. Dozie stated that the practice of using bleach and paracetamol on food products is highly detrimental to human health.

He also urged the Federal Ministry of Health to ensure a blueprint for practices in the public food sector is available to the public for implementation.

“The House notes with dismay the revelation by Osun State government officials that some caterers and food vendors in the State have been using paracetamol and bleach to tenderize meat and process cassava.

“The House is aware that high dosage of paracetamol comes with toxicity that may lead to kidney and renal failures while the use of bleach to process cassava for garri is simply food poisoning.

“The House is concerned that about the extent of damage this criminal act has had on vital organs of the consumers which include kidneys, liver, heart and small intestines.

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“The House is worried that such illicit acts in Osun State and other states may have been going on for years without the relevant government agencies doing much to stem it and bring the culprits to book to serve as deterrent.

“The House is concerned that such food vendors and -caterers are deliberately and mischievously destroying their consumers by employing such selfish unhealthy practices to prepare food.

To this end, the House mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to ensure compliance and report back to the-House within eight weeks for further legislative action