[NAFDAC Public Alert No: 0023/2019, December 29, 2019] – Alert on Dangerous and Unapproved Use of Paracetamol Tablets in Food Preparation.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) hereby alerts the public on the dangerous and unapproved use of Paracetamol Tablets to soften meat used in food preparation.
The members of the public, especially restaurant operators are cautioned to desist from the dangerous and unapproved use of Paracetamol Tablets to soften meat used in food preparation, as such illegal practice makes food to be toxic, unwholesome and unfit for human consumption. When used to cook, paracetamol is broken down (or hydrolyzed) into a toxic substance. This substance ultimately damages the liver and some other organs in the body.
Thus, the consumption of toxic and unwholesome food illegally prepared using Paracetamol Tablets may result in serious health consequences, including liver damage, kidney failure and untimely death.
NAFDAC recommends the following safer alternative methods for tenderizing meat:
- Use genuine NAFDAC registered Table Salt (in moderation) by soaking meat in salted water for about 30 minutes prior to cooking.
- Cooking with a pressure cooker.
- Marinating (soaking) with vinegar, citrus juices or wine before cooking.
- Marinating with enzymes e.g., Pineapple, kiwi, ginger, Asian pear and pawpaw which contain enzymes that can help soften meat.
- Slow cooking the meat, or
- Using commercial meat tenderizers (in moderation), available in powder or liquid form.
Genuine Paracetamol Tablets registered by NAFDAC are used to relieve mild pain and if the pain persists, the patient should consult a healthcare professional for expert advice.
NAFDAC is increasing surveillance on restaurant operators nationwide and is urging members of the public to contact the nearest NAFDAC Office with any information on dangerous and illegal use of Paracetamol Tablets in food preparation.
Anybody or organization discovered to be involved in the dangerous and illegal use of Paracetamol Tablets in food preparation will be severely sanctioned.
Consumers are advised to report adverse events related to dangerous and illegal use of Paracetamol Tablets in food preparation to the nearest NAFDAC office, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322) TOLL FREE from all networks or via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng
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