Don Calls on Universities to Lead Cassava Research | The Guardian Nigeria News

Nnacheta Okafor, professor of biochemical toxicologist Polycarp, has advised agricultural universities to take the lead in cassava research.

The Don, who spoke on the subject of “Metabolism Of Cassava Cyanide and Jim Jones Cyanide in Humans”, said during the 52 is a novel method for making cassava flakes (garri) with a low glycemic index and residual cyanide and thus would serve as food for diabetics.

He said cassava still holds great potential for Nigeria’s social and economic growth, is a staple food for millions, and makes a significant contribution to food security without compromising food security.

Prof. Okafor pointed out that it has also been proven beyond doubt by an industry that uses it (cassava) as part of its main raw material.

He tasked the university, which he said is well-stocked with intellectuals and in an agriculturally supportive environment, with ensuring adequate food security and food security for southeast Nigeria and beyond.

“If De-United Foods Industries Ltd can turn cassava roots, a neglected root crop, into a popular and acceptable food for young and old in Nigeria, we can do a lot better, at least in southeastern Nigeria.”

To control cyanide, he called for strict enforcement of regulations that regulate the discharge of cassava cyanide waste, agricultural fertilizers and pesticides into the aquatic environment and atmosphere.

“The Nigerian government, through its competent authorities such as the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the National Agency for Food Administration and Control (NAFDAC), should take on the challenges of ensuring that food, beverages, water and the environment are free from toxins and among other things chemical carcinogens beyond the limits set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a joint FAO / WHO international body of which Nigeria is a member.

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