Aproko Doctor Warns Nigerians of Spoiled Tomatoes Containing Liver Cancer-Causing Toxins

Popular health influencer and medical doctor, Chinonso Egemba, also known as Aproko Doctor, has issued a warning to Nigerians against consuming spoiled tomatoes and other fungus-infested food items.

The warning was made in a viral health advisory posted on x, where Egemba cautioned that some of the visibly rotten tomatoes in circulation contain harmful fungal growths that could produce toxins dangerous to human health.

“Those white things inside the tomato are caused by a fungus that produces a toxin known as aflatoxin… aflatoxin has been shown to actually cause liver cancer in adults. If you give it to children, it can cause stunted growth as well as other things,” he said.

According to Egemba, the risk isn't limited to tomatoes alone, but it also affects other food items, such as corn, onions, groundnuts, and grains. This is especially true when they're stored in damp or improper conditions. He warned that such contaminated food items are often sold in markets because they're cheaper. Consumers may unknowingly prioritise affordability over safety, which isn't a good idea.

The Lagos State Government has warned residents against consuming spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes before, citing significant health risks. The General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, Afolabi Solebo, had urged consumers to avoid tomatoes showing visible fungal growth, such as white, green, or black patches. They're a sign of contamination.

The National Cancer Institute notes that humans are exposed to aflatoxins through contaminated plant products or animal products derived from livestock fed with contaminated feed. Exposure to aflatoxins is associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. It's a serious health issue that can't be ignored.

So, what can you do to stay safe? Egemba urged Nigerians to prioritise fresh produce and proper storage. He warned against cutting off visibly rotten portions of food, as contamination may already have spread internally. Grains and food items showing an unusual smell or signs of dampness should be discarded immediately. It's crucial to store them in cool and dry environments.

Yet, the challenge persists, as many Nigerians may not be aware of the risks associated with consuming spoiled tomatoes and other contaminated food items. It's essential to spread awareness and take necessary precautions to ensure food safety. Nigerians don't know about these risks, and they need to be informed.

But what are aflatoxins, and how do they affect human health? Aflatoxins are toxins produced by certain fungi commonly found on agricultural crops, such as maize, peanuts, cottonseed, and tree nuts. The fungi, mainly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, thrive in warm and humid conditions. They can contaminate crops in the field, during harvest, or during storage. It's a complex issue that requires attention.

In addition to liver cancer, aflatoxins have been linked to other health problems, including stunted growth in children. Therefore, it's crucial to take the necessary precautions to avoid consuming contaminated food items. Children are especially vulnerable, and they can't protect themselves.

The warning from Aproko Doctor and the Lagos State Government highlights that food safety is a critical issue that requires attention and awareness. By taking the necessary precautions and prioritising fresh produce, Nigerians can reduce their risk of exposure to aflatoxins and other harmful toxins. They won't be able to eliminate the risk completely, but they can reduce it significantly. It's a step in the right direction, and it's essential for their health.