Lagos: The Mycotoxicology Society of Nigeria (MSN), in collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), has initiated measures to detect and prevent the threat of mycotoxins in Nigeria’s agricultural produce. Farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture sector were educated on managing mycotoxin risks during the 18th annual conference of the Mycotoxicology Society of Nigeria, hosted by SON in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference, themed ‘Mycotoxins in a Changing World: Risk, Management and Innovations,’ highlighted the dangers posed by mycotoxins. These toxic compounds are produced by certain molds and can contaminate food, posing significant health risks to humans and animals. Mycotoxin exposure can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption, leading to severe health issues, including cancer.
Prof. Yemisi Jeff-Agboola, MSN National President, represented by Dr. Danladi Abba, MSN Vice President (North), emphasized the importance of collective efforts to tackle the menace of mycotoxins. He stressed the need for advancements in detection, monitoring, and the development of regulatory standards to protect the population and market from mycotoxin contamination.
On behalf of the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, Mrs. Talatu Ethan, Director of Corporate Affairs, reiterated SON’s commitment to ensuring food safety in Nigeria. She highlighted the importance of effective management of micro therapy contamination in food and agricultural produce to enhance the global acceptance of Nigerian agro-products.
Dr. Folashade Oluwabamiwo, a member of the MSN Board of Trustees, called for collective responsibility to address emerging mycotoxins in Nigeria’s agriculture sector. She noted that climate change has created conditions conducive to the survival and spread of fungi that produce mycotoxins, necessitating more proactive and advanced monitoring and prevention strategies.
Mr. Sakin Agbayewa, Deputy Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, urged farmers to take advantage of the knowledge shared at the conference to improve their farming practices and reduce health risks associated with mycotoxins.