The Lagos State Government has warned residents to avoid consuming spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes, commonly known as “Ata Esha,” citing serious health risks associated with their consumption.
The warning was issued on Sunday by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency in a statement shared via the state government’s official X handle.
The agency’s General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, advised consumers to be vigilant when purchasing tomatoes, especially those showing visible signs of fungal growth such as white, green, or black spots.
He explained that fungi on spoiled tomatoes can produce harmful toxins, including aflatoxins, which may cause serious health complications such as liver damage and other related diseases.
“A healthy person is determined by what he or she consumes from time to time,” Solebo said, stressing the importance of safe dietary choices.
He further warned that cooking, boiling, or frying contaminated tomatoes does not necessarily eliminate the toxins, making them unsafe for human consumption.
Solebo also cautioned residents against buying spoiled tomatoes simply because they are cheaper, noting that health and safety should take priority over cost considerations.
He urged consumers to carefully inspect food items before purchase and avoid any visibly mouldy or decomposing produce.
Residents were also advised to properly dispose of contaminated food items and report sellers of unsafe or expired products to relevant government agencies responsible for public health and consumer protection.
The agency reiterated that consumers have both rights and responsibilities, including the duty to make informed and ethical choices while speaking out against unfair market practices.
Solebo added that monitoring and enforcement teams have been deployed across Lagos markets to clamp down on traders selling unsafe food products.
The warning forms part of ongoing efforts by the state government to strengthen food safety standards and protect public health across Lagos.
