Nigerian health influencer and medical doctor, Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, has warned Nigerians against consuming rotten tomatoes and other fungus-infested foods, cautioning that they may expose people to dangerous toxins linked to serious health conditions, including liver cancer.
In a health advisory shared on X on Monday, the medical expert cautioned against the widespread consumption of spoiled tomatoes, commonly referred to in local markets as “Ata Esha” or “Awarawa.”
According to him, many Nigerians unknowingly consume contaminated foods daily because they are often sold at cheaper prices.
Fungal Toxins Linked To Liver Cancer
Egemba explained that the white patches commonly found inside rotten tomatoes are signs of fungal growth capable of producing aflatoxins, toxic substances known to pose severe health risks.
“This tomato, commonly called spoiled tomatoes (Ata Esha) or awarawa… there’s a poison inside this tomato that a lot of you don’t know about, but you’re eating it every day,” he said.
He further stated that prolonged exposure to aflatoxins has been scientifically linked to liver cancer in adults, while children exposed to such toxins risk stunted growth and other health complications.
“Those white things inside the tomato are caused by a fungus that produces a toxin known as aflatoxin. Aflatoxin has been shown to actually cause liver cancer in adults. If you give it to children, it can cause stunted growth as well as other things,” he added.
Other Foods Also Affected
The health advocate noted that the risk is not limited to tomatoes alone, warning that improperly stored corn, onions, grains and groundnuts can also become contaminated by harmful fungi, especially when exposed to moisture or poor storage conditions.
He warned consumers against prioritising cheaper food items over their health and safety.
“You might think you are saving money by eating this type of tomato, but you are actually risking your life,” he said.
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Egemba advised Nigerians to always purchase fresh produce and ensure food items are properly stored in cool and dry environments to reduce fungal contamination.
He also cautioned that simply cutting away visibly rotten portions of food does not eliminate the danger, stressing that the toxins may have already spread to other parts of the produce.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.