By: Lanre Shodimu
Residents of Lagos are being urged to exercise caution in their food choices as health authorities intensify warnings against the consumption of spoiled tomatoes locally known as “Ata Esha,” which have been linked to serious health risks including toxic exposure and liver damage.
The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against the consumption of spoiled or fungus-infested tomatoes popularly referred to as “Ata Esha,” warning that such products pose significant dangers to human health.
The advisory was issued recently through the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency and shared via the state’s official communication channels.
The agency’s General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, advised consumers to be vigilant when purchasing tomatoes, especially those showing visible signs of fungal contamination such as white, green, or black patches.
According to him, such spoilage is not merely a cosmetic issue but a serious food safety concern, as fungi found on infected tomatoes can produce harmful toxins capable of triggering severe health complications, including liver damage and long-term diseases.
He further stressed that common cooking methods such as boiling, frying, or roasting do not eliminate these toxins once they are present in contaminated produce.
“A healthy person is determined by what he or she consumes from time to time,” Solebo stated, urging residents to prioritise food safety and avoid any produce suspected to be rotten or contaminated.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and improving public awareness on safe food handling practices across markets in the state.
