In a stern caution to the public, the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Moji Adeyeye, has emphasized the risks associated with storing cooked food in refrigerators for extended periods.
Speaking through the agency’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, Prof. Adeyeye highlighted the dangers of foodborne illnesses stemming from contaminated food.
She underscored that storing cooked meals for more than three days in the refrigerator increases the likelihood of contamination by disease-causing pathogens, which can potentially lead to severe health complications, including death.
The warning comes in light of the 2024 World Food Safety Day, observed annually on June 7th under the theme “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected.”
This global initiative aims to raise awareness about the critical importance of food safety practices in preventing and managing public health risks associated with unsafe food handling.
Adeyeye emphasized the need for a comprehensive food safety culture across Nigeria’s food supply chain to effectively mitigate risks and ensure public health protection.
She stated, “Food safety is not only crucial for safeguarding public health but also vital for economic development and ensuring food security.”
The statement issued by NAFDAC further stressed, “She however, urged Nigerians to refrain from storing cooked food in the refrigerator for more than three days, warning that cooked food stored in the refrigerator for days is susceptible to contamination by disease-causing pathogens, key agents of foodborne diseases that can lead to death.”
According to global health data from the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 600 million people worldwide suffer from foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in around 420,000 deaths. This issue also imposes significant economic burdens, with approximately $110 billion lost annually in low- and middle-income countries due to lost productivity and medical costs arising from unsafe food practices.
Mrs. Eva Edwards, Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, underscored the importance of collective efforts in promoting good hygiene practices to prevent foodborne diseases. Edwards stated, “Let’s all play our part in promoting the culture of good hygiene practices in our homes, communities, and food establishments. Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier food supply for everyone.”
As NAFDAC intensifies efforts to enhance food safety awareness and regulatory measures, the agency urges Nigerians to adhere strictly to food safety guidelines to protect themselves and their families from the risks associated with unsafe food handling practices.