Sodiq Ojuroungbe As the number of food poisoning cases continues to rise across the country, public health and nutrition experts have advocated for stringent food safety regulations, better hygiene practices, and enhanced public education to combat the spread of foodborne diseases. The experts stated that without significant improvements in the implementation of food safety measures, the situation might get worse, placing additional strain on healthcare systems and public health resources. Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the experts maintained that while regulatory changes were crucial, individual vigilance also plays a vital role in food safety.
In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a troubling increase in food poisoning cases. Reports indicated that some states, including Sokoto, Kwara, Anambra, Benue,and Nasarawa have been severely affected, with several fatalities attributed to contaminated food and poor food handling practices. https://healthwise.
punchng.com/benue-widow-six-kids-hospitalised-after-taking-poisoned-pap/ In 2024 alone, more than 50 deaths from food poisoning have been reported across different states in the country, while several were hospitalised. In the Gidinye community of Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, no fewer than five children were reported to have died within 24 hours after eating farm food.
Similarly, a mother and her three children were confirmed dead by the Kwara State Government after consumption of Lafun-Amala made f.