A nutritionist in Ebonyi State has cautioned consumers against eating undercooked or improperly prepared pork, warning that it could expose them to dangerous bacterial and parasitic infections.
The warning comes amid a noticeable rise in roadside pork vendors across Abakaliki, according to a survey by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Mrs. Blessing Ugwuoke, a nutritionist at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, said pork is nutritious but becomes hazardous when not thoroughly cooked.
She explained that harmful microorganisms in undercooked pork can trigger food-borne illnesses and other serious health complications.
“Pork is also high in saturated fat and sodium, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and high blood pressure, when consumed excessively,” she warned.
Ugwuoke urged consumers to ensure proper cooking of pork to eliminate pathogens, while also calling on sellers to maintain strict hygiene standards.
“Those involved in the preparation and sale of pork should always observe strict hygiene standards to prevent contamination and safeguard public health,” she added.
She further called on health authorities to intensify public sensitisation campaigns on safe food handling practices.
Also speaking, a nurse, Mrs. Ngozi Eze, noted that pork remains a rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc and iron, but stressed the need for caution in purchase and preparation.
“I enjoy eating pork, but I always look for a clean and hygienic environment before buying it,” she said.
Meanwhile, pork dealer Mr. Chukwuma Ugota of Mile 50 Layout, Abakaliki, described the business as profitable but raised concern over rising production costs, especially animal feed.
He said a 200kg bag of feed now sells between N400,000 and N450,000, while pork is sold to retailers at N2,200 to N2,500 per kilogram, and retailed to consumers at N4,500 to N5,000 per kilogram.
At Diamond Point Junction, Kpirikpiri, another vendor, Ms. Ugochi Igwe, a graduate of Business Administration from Ebonyi State University, said the business has provided her steady income since completing her NYSC in 2023, describing daily sales as encouraging.
