David Okiring

PUBLIC FOOD SAFETY ALERT: Poisonous seeds found mixed with beans in local markets MAAIF has received complaints and verified evidence that rubber tree seeds (Hevea brasiliensis) are being fraudulently mixed with beans sold in some markets, notably in Agago District, posing a potential risk to public health. 1. HOW TO IDENTIFY THEM: -Beans are flat or kidney-shaped. Rubber seeds are round like a marble. -They have a shiny grey-white colour with dark brown/black spots and stripes. -They have a small white dot where they were attached to the pod. -See photos attached. If you see them, they are NOT beans. 2. WHY THEY ARE DANGEROUS: These seeds are *NOT FOOD*. They are not edible. I. They contain natural poison (cyanogenic glycosides) that can cause food poisoning. II. If eaten raw or cooked with beans, they can cause: severe stomach pain, vomiting, dizziness, headache, weakness and diarrhoea. III. Children are at higher risk. Chickens and pigs can also die if they eat many. This is a case of *Food Adulteration*- accidental or intentional mixing of non-food items with food, which is illegal and dangerous. 3. WHAT CONSUMERS SHOULD DO: Before buying: I. Pour the beans on a flat tray and look through them before you pay. II. Buy from trusted traders who clean their beans. Before cooking: -Sort thoroughly on a table or large plate. Remove ALL round mottled seeds, stones, and broken beans. -Wash beans 2-3 times with clean water. - Do not cook if you are not sure-bring a sample to your extension worker or Health Centre. If someone has eaten them: -Do not wait. Go immediately to the nearest Health Centre/Hospital and carry some of the seeds to show the health workers. 4. WHAT TRADERS AND MARKET LEADERS SHOULD DO: I. Never store beans in sacks that were previously used for rubber seeds or other non-food items. II. Always clean and sort beans before putting them on sale. III. Market leaders ( SAS, Agricultural Police & Market Masters) should inspect produce regularly. 5. MAAIF APPEAL: We call upon all LC1, LC2, Parish Chiefs, and VHTs to spread this message. Food safety is everyone's responsibility. Eat Safe. Stay Healthy. Sort Your Beans Before Cooking!