Dr. Warns Ola Wales, a medical doctor, has strongly warned Nigerians about the dangerous consequences of consuming spoiled tomatoes and peppers, known as’ eesa’ or ‘baaje’ tomatoes.
In a viral video viewed by Africa Health Report, on Saturday, Wales highlighted the health risks posed by harmful microorganisms found in rotten produce.
Wales emphasized the presence of fungi that produce mycotoxins, which can potentially lead to cancer and other severe health problems.
He displayed a plate of rotten tomatoes to illustrate the importance of being cautious about the quality of vegetables available in the market.
“Just because we are in a tough economy does not mean you should start eating poison, because this type of tomato can cause cancer,” Wales cautioned.
While fresh tomatoes are known for their abundance of Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, rotten tomatoes not only lack these benefits but also can become contaminated by flies and microorganisms.
Wales explained that as these tomatoes decompose, microorganisms invade them, leading to rotting. Fungi, in particular, are known to produce mycotoxins, which have been linked to cancers and immune deficiencies in humans.
Even if these tomatoes are washed and boiled, Wales warned that the mycotoxins that cause kidney and liver damage cannot be eliminated.
