Nutritionists warn against using detergent to wash fruit

Nutritionists are warning fruit traders against using laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, or other household cleaning products to wash produce. Experts state that detergent residues can remain trapped in the cracks, bruises, or irregular surfaces of fruit, posing a chemical hazard that can irritate the mouth, throat, and digestive system when swallowed.

This warning follows concerns regarding food-handling practices in Nigeria. A 2025 study of 166 vegetable traders in Ogun State revealed significant hygiene gaps, noting that fewer than 1% of traders had received formal food safety training and only 52% routinely changed their washing water within four hours.

Health authorities, including the World Health Organization and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, advise using potable, running water to wash produce instead of soaps or commercial washes, which are difficult to rinse off completely. Dr. Olufunmilola Ogunmiluyi, Assistant Director of Nutrition and Dietetics, emphasized that detergents are formulated for surfaces and clothing rather than food consumption.