The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against consuming spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes, popularly called “Ata Esha,” warning that the contaminated produce poses serious health risks even after cooking.
The warning was issued by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, which advised residents to avoid tomatoes showing signs of white, green or black fungal growth.
General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, said mouldy tomatoes could contain dangerous toxins capable of causing severe health complications.
According to him, some fungi found on spoiled tomatoes produce aflatoxins, harmful substances linked to liver damage and other serious illnesses.
Solebo stressed that boiling, frying or cooking contaminated tomatoes does not completely destroy the toxins, making such food unsafe for consumption.
He urged consumers not to prioritise low prices over their health by purchasing visibly decayed or mould-infested food items because they are cheaper.
The LASCOPA boss advised residents to carefully inspect tomatoes and other perishable goods before buying them and immediately discard any contaminated products.
He also encouraged consumers to report traders selling unsafe or expired food products to relevant public health and consumer protection authorities.
According to Solebo, consumers must remain informed and make safer choices while rejecting harmful market practices that could endanger public health.
The agency disclosed that enforcement teams had already been deployed to markets across Lagos to identify and arrest traders involved in the sale of unsafe food products.
LASCOPA reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting residents by ensuring only safe and healthy food items are sold in markets across Lagos.
