A fish expert and Director of Academic Planning at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Dr Olubunmi Adeosun, has cautioned fish processors against using insecticides for fish preservation.
Dr Adeosun warned that using insecticides, among other unhygienic practices during fish production, poses serious health risks to consumers
She said this while delivering OYSCATECH’s 2nd inaugural lecture on Wednesday, titled “From Harvest to Plate: The Journey of the Pearls of the Waters,” according to a statement signed by the school’s Public Relations Officer, Olawore Opeyemi, on Thursday.
Emphasising that unhygienic practices of handling during and after production play a major role in food contamination, the Director called for proper cleaning and sanitation procedures to increase the quality of fish and fish products.
According to her, “Fish is a nutritious food source packaged with essential nutrients and a great addition to a healthy diet, and the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per week.
“Fish food and safety are critical to consumers due to their health implications, and to exploit the export potential for smoked farmed catfish, there is a need for strict adherence to international quality and safety standards.”
Highlighting the nutritional value of fish, Adeosun noted that it is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins beneficial to heart health, brain function, and bone development.
Adeosun appealed that fish processors need to consider the health of consumers as paramount and should avoid the use of insecticides in the preservation of smoked catfish.
She hinted that fish farmers should avoid giving junk food as feed for the fish and excessive use of antibiotics while appealing that they embrace healthy practices in the production and processing of fish.
The fisheries expert, however, advised consumers to be aware of what they buy in the market and the quality of the fish they consume for their health.
Adeosun also reiterated the roles of stakeholders in ensuring control of the use of unregulated preservatives and enforcing good manufacturing practices.
She therefore called on the Federal Government to support local fish production to bridge the gap between consumption and supply.
She explained that Nigeria’s heavy dependence on imported fish was due to low domestic production and inadequate government support for local producers and processors.
As a solution, Adeosun recommended constant training and sensitisation of producers and processors, including retailers, about the dangers of using insecticides on human health.
Earlier, OYSCATECH Rector, Prof. Akinola Akinlabi, commended the Oyo State Government for its consistent financial support.
He posited that the institution will not relent in its vision of training for innovation, food sufficiency and self-employment.
The inaugural lecture was well attended by both past and present principal officers of the institution, among whom are Dr Ariyo Okunlola, Dr Sarafa Agbogun, Dr Taiwo Akinyemi, Dr Kolawole Raheem, Mr Modupe Ogundapo, and Engr. Dauda Salaam