Reps probe alleged health risks from use of locally made grinding machines

By Ikenna Osuoha

The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into claims that the use locally made grinding machines for food processing pose serious health risks like cardiovascular disease and organ failure as a result of heavy metals.

This followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Wale Raji, representing Epe Federal Constituency in Lagos State, at plenary on Thursday.

Moving the motion, Raji cited a report by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Osodi (FIIRO) warning that contamination during the grinding process could expose users to heavy metals.

He said that such exposure, according to the report, might cause cardiovascular disease and organ failure.

Adopting the motion, the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the plenary, referred it to committees on health care services, industry, science and technology, and commerce.

Kalu urged them to jointly investigate the claims and report back within six weeks for necessary legislative action.

Also, under another motion of public importance, a member representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, Rep. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, raised the alarm on alleged over-admission of students by University of Benin.

Abiante said that the university, like many others in the country, admitted 350 students into its Optometry Department which, he said, was higher than the accredited number.

According to the lawmaker, such over-admission is capable of causing trauma for students and parents as well as undermining the country’s university education system.

He urged the House to investigate the allegation immediately in order to prevent such occurrences.

The motion was referred to the relevant committees for further legislative action.

Recall that Prof. Lateef Sanni, Executive Director of Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute had in a recent interview urged the Federal Government to stop the use of grinding machines made of mild steel and galvanised iron nationwide

Sanni warned that most grinding machines used in markets were fabricated from corrosive metals, which he described as hazardous and potentially carcinogenic when in contact with food.

He said the machines should be replaced with stainless steel models to reduce exposure to harmful contaminants.

“All the grinding machines in the country are made of steel and galvanised iron. They are corrosive and may contribute to rising cases of cancer and other diseases,” he said.

Sanni added that food preparation surfaces must be made of stainless steel to prevent contamination and safeguard public health across communities.

(NAN)