90 Quintals of Aflatoxin-Conta...

90 Quintals of Aflatoxin-Contaminated Chili Powder Seized and Destroyed

Addis Ababa | March 17, 2026

The Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority (Kolfe Branch) announced the seizure and disposal of 90 quintals of contaminated chili powder (Berbere) before it could be distributed to the public market.

Findings and Reasons for Disposal: According to the authority's quality control report, the product posed a significant health risk to consumers. The primary reasons for the seizure were:

1. Adulteration: The producer illegally mixed 20 quintals of peanuts with 70 quintals of chili to unfairly increase profit margins, compromising the food's integrity.

2. Chemical Contamination (Aflatoxin): Due to the unauthorized mixture and storage in a damp environment, the product tested high for Aflatoxin. This toxin is a known carcinogen linked to liver cancer.

Legal Action: Mr. Wubet Terrefe, a representative of the Authority, stated that the packaged product was intercepted during a routine inspection before reaching the market. The individual responsible has been detained and handed over to the legal authorities for prosecution.

Public Advisory: The Authority issued the following recommendations to the public:

• Consumers should purchase food items only from trusted, licensed vendors and verify product quality.

• The public is urged to report any illegal food processing or suspicious activities via the toll-free number 8864.