Lagos:Some residents in Lagos are increasingly worried about the occurrence of discoloured yams, known as ‘chocolate yam’, which has raised questions about the quality of these tubers.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the residents expressed their concerns during interviews, noting that the discolouration is only discovered after cutting open the yams, rendering them inedible and causing financial losses. Festac resident Ms. Divine-Favour Johnson shared her dissatisfaction after purchasing such yams, despite having saved money to buy them. She urged consumers to buy fresh yams when available and called on sellers to reduce the use of preservatives.
Mr. Samuel Arowojolu, a diesel operator in Oshodi, mentioned experiencing this problem several times and noted that it seems to be becoming more common. He pointed out the difficulty consumers face in identifying affected yams before purchase, as the discolouration is only visible after slicing. Arowojolu speculated that the issue might be linked to yam varieties and fertiliser use, suggesting farmers consider natural manure instead.
In related observations, Mrs. Aminat Omotolani, a trader at Okerube Bus Stop, Ikotun, explained that distinguishing between yam varieties can be challenging for unfamiliar consumers. She sources yams from several Nigerian states, including Abuja and Oyo, and noted that discoloured yams are often cheaper than the preferred ‘efuru yam’. Omotolani added that the coloured yam is not harmful according to her understanding.
Meanwhile, Iya Islamiat, a yam trader at Ilogbo Mosque, Oyingbo, stated she primarily sells white yam and sources her stock from Ado-Ekiti and Kwara. She indicated that some hawkers, referred to as ‘mallams’, are mainly responsible for selling the discoloured variety. Prices at her stall range from N1,500 to N2,000, depending on the size.