The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has warned the public against consuming beans allegedly contaminated with poisonous rubber tree seeds, following reports and verified evidence of the practice in some markets, particularly in Agago District.
In a food safety alert, the ministry said the seeds, scientifically known as Hevea brasiliensis, contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide and cause serious poisoning when consumed, whether raw or cooked with beans.
MAAIF says symptoms may include severe stomach pain, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, weakness and diarrhoea, with children being particularly vulnerable.
The ministry has urged consumers to carefully inspect beans before purchasing and cooking them, noting that the poisonous seeds are round, shiny grey-white, with dark spots and stripes, unlike ordinary beans.
Consumers have also been advised to buy from trusted traders, thoroughly sort and wash beans before cooking, and avoid consuming any produce suspected to be contaminated.
Anyone who suspects they have eaten the poisonous seeds has been urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility and, where possible, carry a sample of the suspected seeds.
MAAIF has further called on traders to properly clean and sort beans before sale, while market leaders, agricultural police and local authorities have been urged to conduct regular inspections to prevent contaminated produce from reaching consumers.