RismadarVoice Reporters, May 17, 2026
The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against purchasing or consuming spoiled and fungus-infested tomatoes, popularly referred to as “Ata Esha,” citing potential health dangers associated with contaminated food products.
The warning was issued through a statement by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), which highlighted concerns over the health implications of consuming deteriorated tomatoes.
The General Manager of the agency, Afolabi Solebo, advised consumers to avoid tomatoes showing visible signs of fungal contamination, including white, green or black mould growth.
According to him, fungi found on spoiled tomatoes can produce dangerous substances such as aflatoxins, which may result in serious health conditions, including liver-related complications.
Solebo stressed the importance of food safety, noting that proper nutrition and healthy consumption habits play a vital role in overall well-being.
He further warned that cooking, boiling or frying contaminated tomatoes may not eliminate harmful toxins, making them unsafe for consumption even after processing.
The agency also advised consumers not to be influenced by lower prices often attached to spoiled food items, urging residents to prioritise their health and safety over cost considerations.
Residents were encouraged to carefully inspect food items before purchase, properly dispose of contaminated products and report the sale of expired or unsafe food items to relevant authorities.
Solebo also reminded consumers of their rights and responsibilities, including staying informed about products and reporting harmful practices that may endanger public health.
He added that monitoring and enforcement teams had been deployed across markets in the state to identify and apprehend traders involved in the sale of unsafe food products.
