Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis and rising food inflation are forcing many roadside food vendors to adopt dangerous survival measures as the cost of fresh tomatoes continues to soar across local markets.
In many Nigerian cities, the familiar aroma of fried plantain, rice, and rich tomato stew is now mixed with a sour smell coming from the use of damaged and rotten tomatoes popularly known as Esa or Baza. These rejected tomatoes, once discarded as waste, have become a cheaper alternative for struggling food sellers trying to stay in business.
At busy roadside canteens, vendors now rely heavily on bruised and mold covered tomatoes to prepare meals for customers who can no longer afford expensive food. According to food vendors, a basket of fresh tomatoes that previously sold for about N35000 now costs over N160000, making it nearly impossible for small businesses to survive using quality ingrents.
Many vendors admitted they cut away visibly rotten parts, boil the remaining tomatoes with pepper and canned paste, and add strong es to cover unpleasant smells and taste. They say customers such as students, bus drivers, and low income workers cannot afford meals if fresh ingrents are used.
Health experts have raised serious concerns over the trend, warning that rotten tomatoes may contain harmful toxins produced by dangerous molds. Laboratory technician Matthew Adedeji explained that aflatoxins found in rotten foods can survive high cooking temperatures and may lead to food poisoning, kidney damage, and even liver cancer after long term consumption.
Despite the health risks, vendors insist they are trapped by harsh economic realities and rising operating costs. Many say they are simply trying to avoid hunger and keep their businesses alive amid worsening inflation and declining purchasing power.
Analysts warn that unless food prices are controlled and economic conditions improve, more Nigerians may continue to face growing health dangers linked to unsafe food practices.
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