In a recent advisory, Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stark warning against the prolonged refrigeration of cooked food, citing significant health risks associated with storing food beyond recommended periods.
Prof. Moji Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC, emphasized the dangers posed by pathogens that thrive in improperly stored cooked food, potentially leading to severe foodborne illnesses.
The advisory coincided with World Food Safety Day, observed on June 7, 2024, under the theme “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected.” This global initiative aims to raise awareness and promote strategies to mitigate the risks associated with unsafe food handling practices, which contribute to millions of illnesses and deaths annually worldwide.
According to Prof. Adeyeye’s statement, “Storing cooked food in the refrigerator for more than three days increases the likelihood of contamination by disease-causing pathogens, which are primary agents of foodborne diseases with potentially fatal consequences.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) underscores the gravity of unsafe food practices, reporting an estimated 600 million cases of foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in approximately 420,000 deaths and significant economic losses. These statistics underscore the urgent need for stringent food safety measures across the entire food supply chain.
Mrs. Eva Edwards, Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, emphasized the importance of adherence to safe food handling practices to mitigate foodborne illnesses. She stressed the necessity for coordinated efforts to promote hygiene standards in homes, communities, and food establishments to ensure a safer food supply.
NAFDAC’s advisory serves as a crucial reminder to the public about the critical role of proper food storage and handling in safeguarding public health. By adhering to recommended guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the incidence of foodborne illnesses, contributing to healthier communities both in Nigeria and globally.
