Stale, rotten tomatoes may cause liver damage - Nutritionist.

A Clinical Nutritionist at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research in Yaba, Lagos, Susan Holbrooke, has cautioned Nigerians that stale and rotten tomatoes may cause liver damage to the body system.

As the economic challenges in Nigeria continue to intensify, many citizens are exploring ways to reduce their food expenses or find more affordable alternatives to maintain a balanced diet.

However, one concerning option that has gained popularity due to its low cost is the consumption of rotten tomatoes, commonly known as 'esha.'

Holbrooke emphasised that they are unsafe for consumption and can lead to liver damage, hinder child development, and even cause miscarriages due to aflatoxin contamination.

Mycotoxins are also present in rotten tomatoes, posing a significant risk to the liver and overall health while fresh tomatoes are known to be rich in antioxidants that protect against cell damage and contain lycopene, a beneficial plant compound associated with heart health, cancer prevention, and sunburn protection.

She explained, 'Rotten tomatoes are unsafe for consumption. It can cause liver damage. For a pregnant woman with too much mycotoxin in her system, it can cause the child to be stunted. That's why aflatoxins are poisonous to the liver. Our liver is like a powerhouse that promotes both the good and the bad...