By Maryjane Austine
Beans Farmers Dismiss Claims of Using Cement for Preservation
The Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C&BFPMAN) has denied allegations that cement is being used to preserve beans.
National President of the association, Kabir Shuaibu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday that no genuine member of the group would engage in such harmful practices.
His reaction followed a viral video on social media showing some young men mixing beans with a substance suspected to be cement.
Shuaibu insisted that the association only adopts safe and recognised methods of preservation, stressing that the practice of adding any harmful substance has long been stopped.
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He explained that members now preserve beans by sealing them in thick nylon bags placed inside sacks, which keep the produce airtight and safe from weevils.
According to him, farmers sometimes use dried pepper or a friendly additive called “Topstoxin” to prevent insect infestation, both of which he described as safe for consumers.
He maintained that it would be unreasonable for farmers to use cement, since such contamination would be easily detected and rejected in the market.
Shuaibu assured that members of the association remain committed to international best practices and will continue to deliver safe beans to Nigerian households.
