A 2013 study by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), has found that locally made grinding machines used to process foods such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, and melon seeds may contribute to organ failure and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria.
Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, Director-General of FIIRO, told journalists that the assessment detected heavy metals—including lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and manganese—as well as elements like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron, in the machines.
These metals, when consumed over time, can accumulate in the body and increase the risk of heart conditions and organ damage, even in young adults,” Dr. Tutuwa said. Contamination levels in some areas, especially near heavy traffic and industrial zones, exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) safety limits.
Heavy metals, she explained, are harmful because they bioaccumulate and do not degrade, while cadmium contamination is particularly concerning due to its widespread industrial use.
FIIRO has since developed a stainless-steel pepper grinding machine to reduce contamination risks. The institute plans to collaborate with the National Assembly, the Office of the First Lady, and other stakeholders to expand safer alternatives, monitor their use, and raise public awareness
Dr. Tutuwa emphasized that stricter regulation and adoption of safer equipment are critical to reducing the national burden of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and organ failure.
