Health experts have raised fresh concerns over the growing use of artificial food seasonings and colourants in Nigerian households, warning that excessive consumption of products high in sodium and chemical additives may be fuelling the country’s increasing cases of hypertension, stroke, kidney disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
The warning comes as artificial flavour enhancers become more common in local markets, with specialists calling for stronger regulatory oversight and greater public awareness of the long-term health risks associated with excessive use. Experts say many Nigerians unknowingly consume unhealthy levels of sodium through heavily seasoned home-cooked meals and processed foods, significantly increasing their risk of non-communicable diseases.
According to Brandspur Brand News, nutrition and public health experts say the danger lies not only in individual seasoning products but also in the cumulative amount of sodium consumed daily from multiple food sources. Nigeria’s average salt intake is estimated to exceed the level recommended by the World Health Organization, prompting health authorities to introduce sodium-reduction initiatives for packaged foods.
Medical professionals warn that continuous consumption of heavily seasoned foods can lead to persistently high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Excess sodium intake may also place sustained strain on the heart and blood vessels, worsen existing hypertension and contribute to premature deaths from preventable non-communicable diseases. While some consumers have also reported concerns about fertility and hormone-related effects after prolonged use of certain artificial flavour enhancers, experts say more scientific evidence is needed to establish direct links.
Although food scientists note that approved flavour enhancers, including monosodium glutamate (MSG), are considered safe when consumed within regulatory limits, health experts stress that moderation is essential. They emphasise that the greatest health risk comes from excessive sodium intake and an overall diet rich in processed foods rather than from a single ingredient alone.
To reduce health risks, experts recommend limiting the use of artificial seasonings and relying more on natural flavouring ingredients such as garlic, ginger, onions, scent leaves, curry leaves, crayfish, locust beans (iru) and other traditional spices. They also advise consumers to reduce processed food consumption, read food labels for sodium content, avoid adding extra seasoning unnecessarily and adopt diets rich in fruits, vegetables and other minimally processed foods. Public health advocates say stronger food regulation, improved consumer education and clearer nutrition labelling will also be essential in tackling Nigeria’s rising burden of cardiovascular diseases.
