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Olugbemi. Adeyinka Ogunleye
1 month ago
Overview
10 Deadly Foods Lagosians Love to Eat
Lagos, the vibrant heart of Nigeria, is famous for its rich and diverse food culture. While these meals tantalize the taste buds, some come with potential health risks if consumed recklessly. Here’s a look at 10 popular foods Lagosians enjoy that could be harmful if precautions aren’t taken. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. Suya (Grilled Meat)
This spicy street delicacy is irresistible, but its preparation over open flames can produce harmful compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Additionally, improperly cooked meat may harbor bacteria. Moderation and choosing reputable vendors can reduce risks.
2. Puff-Puff
This deep-fried snack is a staple at Lagos parties, but excessive consumption contributes to high cholesterol and weight gain. The frequent reuse of frying oil by vendors can also produce harmful trans fats.
3. Sharwama
While delicious and convenient, shawarma often contains high-calorie sauces, overly processed meats, and vegetables stored under questionable conditions. These factors may lead to food poisoning or excessive calorie intake.
4. Akara (Bean Cake)
Another fried favorite, Akara, can be unhealthy when consumed in large amounts due to the excessive oil it absorbs. The risk increases if the frying oil is reused multiple times, creating harmful compounds.
5. Isi Ewu/Nkwobi (Goat Head/Cow Foot)
This spicy delicacy is loaded with high-fat content, particularly saturated fats, which can increase cholesterol levels. The rich sauces often paired with alcohol make it even worse for heart health when consumed excessively.
6. Amala with Ewedu and Gbegiri
A Lagosian staple, Amala is typically accompanied by generous servings of soup and meat. While nutritious in moderation, large portions combined with fatty meats can lead to obesity and high cholesterol.
7. Fried Rice and Jollof Rice
No Lagos party is complete without these iconic dishes, but the excessive use of oil, seasonings, and additives like MSG can be unhealthy, especially for those with high blood pressure or kidney concerns.
8. Boli (Roasted Plantain)
While healthy on its own, Boli is often served with groundnut or palm oil sauces, adding unnecessary calories. Vendors’ hygiene practices can also raise concerns about contamination.
9. Asun (Spicy Goat Meat)
This smoky, peppery treat is high in saturated fat and often heavily salted. Its intense spice levels can also irritate the stomach lining, leading to acid reflux for some people.
10. Street Fruit Salads
These mixed fruit bowls are refreshing but can be dangerous if hygiene practices are lax. Fruits washed with unclean water or exposed to flies can harbor harmful bacteria, leading to foodborne illnesses.
Final Thoughts
While these foods are staples of Lagosian cuisine, their potential health risks stem from poor preparation practices, excessive consumption, or low-quality ingredients. To enjoy these meals safely:
Choose reputable vendors.
Eat in moderation.
Opt for homemade versions.
Lagos offers an exciting culinary adventure, but a little caution goes a long way in keeping you safe and healthy!
Credit: eyesoflagos
