The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Crops Research Institute (CSIR-CRI) has issued a strong warning to the general public and food vendors against the dangerous practice of using cement powder to preserve grains, particularly cowpea (beans).
The Institute has expressed grave concern over reports that some traders are resorting to mixing cement powder with beans to prevent pest infestation during storage. While the practice is intended to extend the shelf life of the produce, health experts warn that it poses severe risks to consumers.
According to scientists at the Institute, consuming beans preserved with cement can lead to serious health complications. Ingesting cement particles, which contain harsh chemicals like chromium and silica, can cause irritation, damage to the digestive tract, and long-term kidney or liver issues.
“Cement is a construction material and is not fit for human consumption. There are no circumstances under which it should be used as a food preservative,” a representative from the CSIR-CRI stated. “We are alerting the public to be vigilant and to wash their beans thoroughly before cooking. If you notice an unusual gritty texture or excessive dust when handling the beans, it is best to discard them.”
The Institute is urging the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and other regulatory bodies to step up inspections at major markets to clamp down on the sale of adulterated food items.
For farmers and traders seeking safe alternatives for grain storage, the CSIR-CRI recommends the use of approved hermetic (airtight) storage bags or authorized plant-based pesticides, which are effective against weevils and other pests without endangering human health.
