NAFDAC warns against storing cooked food in the refrigerator for over three days
Prof. Moji Adeyeye, the head of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), advised Nigerians not to keep cooked food in the fridge for more than three days. She said that storing cooked food for too long can lead to contamination by harmful germs, causing food poisoning and even death.
This advice was shared in a statement by the agency’s Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, on Tuesday.
World Food Safety Day is observed every year on June 7th. The theme for 2024 is “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected.” This day is meant to raise awareness about preventing and managing health risks related to unsafe food.
Adeyeye highlighted the importance of having good food safety practices throughout the food supply chain to reduce risks. She mentioned that food safety is vital not only for health but also for economic growth and food security.
She urged Nigerians to avoid keeping cooked food in the fridge for more than three days, warning that such food can get contaminated with germs that cause diseases and death.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that nearly 600 million people get sick each year from eating contaminated food, leading to about 420,000 deaths. This issue also causes significant economic losses, especially in low- and middle-income countries, with an estimated $110 billion lost annually due to decreased productivity and medical costs.
Mrs. Eva Edwards, the Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, emphasized that foodborne diseases can be prevented through proper food handling and hygiene. She urged everyone to practice good hygiene at home, in communities, and in food businesses to ensure a safer food supply.
