File Photo: General Manager, LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo
The Lagos State Government has warned residents against the consumption of spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes, popularly known as “Ata Esha,” cautioning that they pose serious health risks that cannot be eliminated even through cooking.
The warning was issued on Sunday by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, whose General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, urged residents to avoid tomatoes showing visible signs of white, green or black fungal growth.
“Fungi found on spoiled tomatoes may produce harmful toxins, including aflatoxins, which can lead to severe health complications such as liver damage and other related diseases,” Solebo said.
He stressed that food safety should take precedence over cost, warning consumers against buying spoiled produce simply because it is cheaper.
