Dr. Salami Akorede, a dietician, has asked NAFDAC to regulate the method of processing cowhide into “ponmo” for human consumption.
Akorede works as the Director of Dietetics at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital in Ile-Ife, Osun.
On Saturday, he told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ile-Ife that the popular method of burning cowhide on naked fire to produce “ponmo” was harmful to one’s health.
He emphasized that the process of burning cowhide on naked fire made the product a potential source of cancer if consumed on a regular basis.
Where it is well processed, `ponmo’ is a good source of protein, water, energy and micronutrients which contain fibre that aid digestion.
In producing ponmo, processors should regulate the exposure of the cow hide to naked fire so as to minimize the formation of nitrates on them.
Ponmo can also serve as alternative to meat as it is cheap and affordable. Dr Akorede said.
The dietician advised consumers to combine ‘ponmo’ with other protein-rich sources such as meat, fish, crayfish, and soya balls to supplement their protein intake.
He charged the federal government with lowering taxes on fish and chicken in order to make them more affordable as protein sources.
More people should be encouraged to take to animal husbandry to reduce the in-take of ponmo, Akorede stated.