11
Published by: The Fatu Network
Health experts in Senegal have raised the alarm after a pilot food safety study by the National Codex Committee and the Institute of Food Technology (ITA) found dangerous levels of cancer-linked aflatoxins in some locally sold rice in Dakar.
Of 200 rice samples collected from restaurants and suppliers in Dakar, Thiès and Kaolack, 30 (22.6%) exceeded permitted safety limits, with all contaminated samples found in Dakar.
Researchers say more than half of the local rice samples tested at Dakar’s Tilène and Petersen markets contained cancer-linked aflatoxins. Produced by certain fungi, aflatoxins are known carcinogens linked to liver cancer.
Experts are now calling for nationwide testing and tighter food safety controls, while urging consumers to remain vigilant.
