The Nigerian Senate has expressed concern over the increasing use of harmful chemicals, especially calcium carbide, by fruit vendors to artificially ripen fruits.

The lawmakers resolved to amend existing laws to make this practice a criminal offence.

Senators described the use of such hazardous substances as a significant public health risk to consumers nationwide and called for further investigations into the issue.

The move followed a motion sponsored by Senator Anthony Okorie Ani of Ebonyi South, who urged relevant regulatory agencies to intervene promptly.

Senator Ani highlighted that exposure to toxic chemicals used in fruit ripening has been linked to serious health problems, including cancer, kidney failure, and other life-threatening conditions.

He warned that continued use could have broad consequences for public health.

In response, the Senate mandated the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to investigate the growing prevalence of this harmful practice.

The lawmakers also proposed stiffer penalties for offenders to act as a deterrent and protect the health of Nigerians.

The motion has been referred to the Senate Committees on Health and Agriculture for further legislative review and action.