‘Shawa fish is one of most toxic fishes we eat’ — Tjay raises alarm

Former Big Brother Naija housemate and medical doctor Tjay has warned Nigerians about the possible health risks associated with eating shawa fish, claiming that the popular dried fish may contain mould, cancer-linked chemicals and heavy metals.

In a video shared online, Tjay identified the whitish substance sometimes found on the fish as mould. He also claimed that the fish could contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which he described as carcinogenic substances.

He warned that soaking shawa fish does not necessarily remove these potentially harmful substances, despite the fish being commonly used in Nigerian meals.

“Guys, see this shawa, this dry fish is one of the most toxic fishes that we eat in the country,” he said.

Tjay advised consumers to soak the fish for at least one hour before removing its head and skin. He claimed that about 50 per cent of the toxins were concentrated in the head.

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He also encouraged Nigerians to choose smaller-sized shawa fish, arguing that they contain lower levels of toxins.

“The tiny ones are less toxic,” he added.