Health Risks Local Grinding Machines: FIIRO Warns of Organ Failure and Heart Disease Link
FIIRO Warns High Rates of Organ Failure, Cardiovascular Diseases May Be Linked to Contaminated Local Grinding Machines
The Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) has raised serious public health concerns over the safety of locally fabricated food grinding machines used across Nigeria, warning that rising cases of organ failure and cardiovascular diseases may be linked to the presence of toxic metals in foods processed with these equipment.
In a statement released on Monday, FIIRO’s Director-General, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, cited findings from a comprehensive scientific assessment showing that many locally made grinding machines — widely used to mill staples such as pepper, tomatoes, onions and melon seeds — contain measurable traces of heavy metals including lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium and manganese. Non-heavy metals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron were also detected in contaminated food samples.
The institute explained that while some metals occur naturally, their excessive presence in food — especially when leached from ageing, poorly maintained or low-grade metal grinders — poses significant long-term health risks. Heavy metals are persistent in the environment and accumulate in the body over time, a process known as bioaccumulation, which can damage vital organs and contribute to serious diseases.
Dr. Tutuwa warned that regular consumption of food processed with contaminated machines may contribute to a higher incidence of cardiovascular diseases and organ failures even among younger adults. Some samples of ground food tested in earlier investigations were found to exceed safety thresholds set by health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
“The risks associated with heavy metal contamination in food are real and growing,” Dr. Tutuwa said, urging stronger regulatory oversight, improved manufacturing standards and increased public awareness to protect consumer health.
In response to the problem, FIIRO has developed a stainless-steel grinding machine designed to reduce metal contamination during food processing. The multipurpose commercial machine, equipped for both dry and wet milling operations, is currently being prepared for mass production through partnerships with indigenous fabricators, government agencies and stakeholders.
FIIRO officials highlighted the importance of using food-grade non-corrosive materials in grinding equipment and promoting safer alternatives in markets nationwide. They noted that public education and enforcement of standards will be crucial in addressing contamination and reducing the burden of related diseases.
Public health experts have previously warned that chronic exposure to heavy metals can affect the liver, kidneys, heart and nervous system, and may increase cancer risk. In light of these warnings, regulators and consumer groups are calling for urgent action to ensure food processing practices do not jeopardize public health.
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