Nigerian medical doctor and popular social media health influencer, Dr. Chinonso Egemba, widely known as Aproko Doctor, has raised alarm over the potential health risks associated with consuming improperly processed Garri, a staple food derived from cassava. In a video shared on Monday, July 14, 2025, he explained how poorly handled Garri could cause serious health issues, including vision impairment and blindness.

Cassava’s Hidden Danger: Cyanogenic Compounds

According to Dr. Egemba, cassava—the primary raw material for Garri—naturally contains cyanogenic glycosides, specifically linamarin and lotaustralin. When cassava is not thoroughly processed, these compounds can transform into hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic substance. Consuming Garri that contains traces of this chemical over time can result in severe health consequences.

He explained, “This hydrogen cyanide can start to affect certain tissues in your body. One of the things it can affect is your eye—particularly the optic nerve and retina. Prolonged exposure can reduce visual acuity and, in extreme cases, lead to blindness.”

Scientific Evidence Supports the Risk

Backing his claim with scientific research, Dr. Egemba referenced studies that found a correlation between Garri consumption and reduced visual sharpness. He noted, “There is even research that showed that people who drink Garri more have less visual acuity than people who don’t.”

Although he did not cite a specific study by name in the video, such findings highlight the need for awareness and stricter health safety standards, especially in rural communities where Garri remains a dietary staple.

Safe When Properly Processed

Nevertheless, Dr. Egemba clarified that Garri is not inherently dangerous if it undergoes complete and proper processing. He emphasized that standard procedures such as fermentation, drying, and roasting significantly reduce the hydrogen cyanide content to harmless levels.

“During proper processing—the fermenting, drying, all the processes involved—the hydrogen cyanide that is dangerous is reduced to the lowest amount possible,” he reassured. “So if your Garri is properly processed, it will not lead to blindness.”

What to Look Out For When Buying Garri

To help consumers stay safe, Dr. Egemba offered practical advice on how to identify well-processed Garri. He urged Nigerians to pay close attention to the texture, dryness, and sourness of the product.

He said, “Look out for Garri that is crispy, properly dried, and has a slightly sour taste. These are signs that the cassava underwent adequate fermentation and drying.”

On the other hand, he warned that Garri which feels moist or sticky could indicate poor processing, meaning it may still contain residual levels of hydrogen cyanide.

Importance of Regulation and Certification

In addition to consumer vigilance, Dr. Egemba called for greater involvement by regulatory authorities, especially the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). He stressed the need for routine inspection and certification of Garri sold in local markets to ensure public safety.

“The most important question you should be asking when it comes to your Garri is: Who processed it? Was it processed properly?” he emphasized. He also encouraged consumers to purchase Garri that is sealed and NAFDAC-approved to minimize exposure to potentially harmful batches.

Public Health Implications

This warning from Aproko Doctor highlights a critical food safety issue in Nigeria. Garri, being one of the most widely consumed foods across the country, plays a central role in the daily nutrition of millions. However, due to the prevalence of unregulated and informal processing, many consumers may unknowingly expose themselves to health risks.

Furthermore, Dr. Egemba’s message aligns with global food safety concerns regarding cassava. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also previously emphasized the need to properly process cassava to remove toxic compounds before consumption, especially in regions where cassava serves as a major source of calories.

Why Proper Cassava Processing Matters

The danger in poorly processed cassava products stems from their chemical makeup. Linamarin and lotaustralin, which are naturally occurring, break down into hydrogen cyanide when ingested. The body can detoxify small amounts, but chronic exposure—particularly in children and vulnerable populations—can have neurotoxic and optic effects.

Notably, hydrogen cyanide affects the mitochondria in cells, impairing energy production in critical tissues such as the eyes, brain, and central nervous system. This biochemical process explains why long-term consumption of under-processed Garri could lead to degeneration of the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss or blindness.

Calls for Consumer Education and Market Surveillance

Dr. Egemba’s advocacy does not stop at individual consumer habits. He strongly advocates for a multi-stakeholder approach involving:

• Government agencies like NAFDAC and the Ministry of Health,

• Food safety regulators and public health officers,

• Market associations and local processors, and

• Educational institutions to raise awareness about the dangers of improper cassava handling.

By encouraging better public education, stricter regulatory oversight, and market surveillance, Nigeria can prevent foodborne illnesses related to cassava and promote healthier dietary practices across the board.

Final Thoughts: Safety Begins With Awareness

In conclusion, Aproko Doctor’s message serves as a timely reminder that while Garri remains a beloved staple in many Nigerian households, it requires strict adherence to safe processing practices. The issue is not with Garri itself but with the level of care and expertise applied during its production.

Consumers must become more informed, retailers must commit to high standards, and regulators must strengthen their monitoring systems. Through collaboration, Nigeria can protect its citizens from preventable health hazards while continuing to enjoy its rich culinary traditions.

After all, as Dr. Egemba rightly stated, “The question is not just whether Garri is safe, but how it was made—and who made it.”