Food expert warns of cancer risks from aflatoxin-contaminated food

A food safety expert has warned that repeated exposure to aflatoxin-contaminated food can damage the body over time and increase the risk of cancer.

Aflatoxins are toxic substances produced by certain moulds that grow on crops such as maize and groundnuts.

Speaking on Eye Radio’s Sundown Show yesterday, Majur Mading, a food expert from the University of Juba, said food contamination and the use of counterfeit or substandard medicines could be contributing to the high number of cancer cases in South Sudan.

“Aflatoxin-contaminated food may not cause immediate symptoms, but repeated exposure over time can damage the body and increase the risk of cancer,” he explained.

His remarks follow the arrest of eight employees of a general trading company in Juba County over allegations of repackaging expired maize flour for sale.

“This is a growing concern in South Sudan, where high cancer rates may be linked to food contamination and, in some cases, the use of counterfeit or substandard medicines. The effects of exposure often take years to appear, particularly in the case of aflatoxin,” he stated.

Mading said some traders reportedly close their shops or flee when inspectors arrive, making it difficult for authorities to inspect their products.

He called for stronger enforcement of food safety laws, including fines and the suspension or withdrawal of business licences for traders who obstruct inspections.

“The government should strengthen the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards by providing adequate funding, transport, and other resources. Without the capacity to carry out inspections, the Bureau cannot effectively protect the public,” he said.

Mading also urged the government to provide the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards with adequate funding, transport and other resources to strengthen food safety inspections.

“The government should also enact and enforce food-safety laws. Some traders reportedly close their shops or flee when inspectors arrive, preventing the Bureau from checking their goods.

“Such obstruction should have consequences under the law, including fines or the suspension or withdrawal of business licences. Finally, the South Sudan Food Safety Association should work with the media to educate the public about food safety,” he said.

He further called on the South Sudan Food Safety Association to work with the media to raise public awareness of food safety and the risks associated with contaminated food.