Lagos– The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a crucial warning to Nigerians about the dangers of storing cooked food in refrigerators for more than three days.
The agency cautions that doing so significantly increases the risk of contamination by disease-causing pathogens, which are key agents of foodborne diseases and can potentially lead to fatal outcomes.
NAFDAC’s advisory comes in the wake of growing concerns over food safety and the rising incidence of foodborne illnesses across the country. The agency emphasizes that cooked food, when stored for prolonged periods in a refrigerator, becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and pathogens.
“Pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli can multiply rapidly in improperly stored food, leading to serious health risks,” a NAFDAC spokesperson explained.
“Consuming contaminated food can result in severe gastrointestinal issues, and in some cases, these infections can be life-threatening.”
NAFDAC recommends that cooked food should ideally be consumed within three days of preparation. If it cannot be eaten within this period, it is advisable to freeze the food, as freezing significantly slows down the growth of pathogens.
The agency also provided the following tips to help Nigerians practice better food safety:
Proper Storage: Ensure that the refrigerator is set at or below 4°C (40°F) to slow the growth of bacteria.
Labeling and Dating: Label and date all stored food items to keep track of their storage duration.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers to at least 75°C (165°F) to kill any bacteria that may have developed.
Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, especially the refrigerator, to prevent cross-contamination.
Public health officials have echoed NAFDAC’s concerns, urging citizens to adhere strictly to these guidelines to protect themselves and their families from foodborne diseases.
“This warning is timely, especially considering the frequent power outages that can compromise the efficiency of refrigerators,” stated Dr. Adebayo Adediran, a public health expert.
“Vigilance in food storage practices can prevent many avoidable illnesses and save lives.”
NAFDAC continues to monitor the situation and plans to launch educational campaigns to raise awareness about food safety and proper food storage practices among the populace.
The agency urges everyone to prioritize their health by following these guidelines and staying informed about safe food handling practices.
