Customs Warn Against Consumption of Smuggled Frozen Poultry from Benin

The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun Area 1 Command, has issued a public warning about the health risks associated with the consumption of smuggled frozen poultry products from the Republic of Benin. Comptroller Mr. James Ojo highlighted the significant health dangers during an interview in Ota on Monday.

Mr. Ojo stressed that the World Health Organization, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations have all identified adverse health effects from consuming smuggled frozen poultry products. These products often lack proper regulatory oversight and are preserved with harmful chemicals.

“The frozen poultry products smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin were preserved with chemicals and often lacked proper regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of harmful chemicals being used for preservation,” Ojo said.

He explained that these smuggled products might not meet the nutritional standards required for healthy consumption. Poor handling and preservation techniques can degrade the meat’s nutritional quality, potentially leading to deficiencies when consumed regularly. The use of unknown or banned chemicals in preserving smuggled poultry can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Comptroller Ojo listed some of these harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde and other preservatives, which could cause acute and chronic health issues such as poisoning, cancer, and organ damage. He urged smugglers involved in this illicit trade to cease their activities, as the Customs Service remains committed to preventing banned goods from entering the country.