Customs Warn: Smuggled Frozen Poultry from Benin Unsafe for Consumption

The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun Area 1 Command, has cautioned the public against consuming smuggled frozen poultry products due to potential health risks.

In an interview on Monday, the command’s Comptroller, Mr. James Ojo, highlighted the concerns raised by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations regarding the adverse health effects of consuming smuggled frozen poultry products.

Ojo explained, “Frozen poultry products smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin are often preserved with harmful chemicals and lack proper regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of dangerous substances being used for preservation.”

He added that these products might not meet nutritional standards, and 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 trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals,” Ojo warned. He identified some of these chemicals, including formaldehyde and other preservatives, which can cause acute and chronic health issues such as poisoning, cancer, and organ damage.

Ojo urged smugglers to cease such illegal activities, emphasizing that Customs would continue to ensure that illicit goods banned by the Federal Government do not enter the country.