Nutrition experts warn about risk of childhood blindness by unfortified edible oil consumption

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Nutrition experts in Nigeria have expressed concerns about risk of childhood blindness by excessive consumption of unfortified edible oils.

The concern was raised at a one-day media workshop for health editors, organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with CS-SUNN,SNO and e-HEALTH Africa, held at Tahir Guest Palace in Kano.

Hope Ikani, Programme Officer at CS-SUNN, emphasized that patronizing unfortified oils, though seemingly affordable, poses long-term risks to public health.

She said Vitamin A deficiency among over three million children has been significantly reduced through fortification efforts, but the continued prevalence of cheap, unbranded bulk oils threatens these gains.

Ms Ikani explained that research has shown that in Nigeria, 1 in 3 children under five suffers from Vitamin A deficiency.

According to the research, Vitamin A deficiency contributes to up to 33% of childhood blindness, 23% increase in vulnerability to infectious diseases like measles and diarrhea and 42% of children aged 6–59 months are Vitamin A deficient.

Ms Ikani noted that according the research , to 21% of the population is at risk of inadequate zinc intake, while 44.1% of children under five are stunted.

According to data from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, a staggering 67% of Nigerians consume unbranded edible oils, while only 31% of oils on the market are fortified.

This leaves a large nutritional gap, contributing to widespread micronutrient deficiencies, particularly Vitamin A deficiency.

Stakeholders at the workshop urged the public to avoid bulk oils commonly sold in open markets, stressing that these products often lack essential nutrients and are sometimes adulterated.