Zambia’s health minister, Elijah Muchima, has expressed concern after approximately 400 dogs are believed to have died in the past month due to consuming contaminated maize, with potential risks to humans as well. Muchima revealed that nearly half of the 25 samples taken from milling companies contained dangerously high levels of aflatoxins, a toxic substance produced by fungi.
Maize, the staple food in Zambia, has raised alarm due to its health implications. The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked aflatoxins to liver cancer in humans.
The authorities launched an investigation after Diamond TV reported that dozens of dogs had died from aflatoxin poisoning, suspected to be from contaminated maize-based dog food. Samples were collected from 10 milling companies that produce both dog food and maize meal for human consumption.
While no human deaths have been reported, the Zambia National Public Health Institute is investigating whether the spoiled maize has impacted the general population. Following the investigation, affected batches of maize meal have been recalled, and seizure notices were issued to the implicated companies.
However, Muchima did not disclose the names of the companies or maize meal brands involved. Previously, only Farmfeed, a dog-food processor, had recalled its products.
Muchima also noted that climate change and Zambia’s recent drought have worsened the presence of aflatoxins this season. The drought, which affected much of southern Africa earlier this year, caused significant crop damage, leaving maize supplies critically low. Maize accounts for around 60% of the population’s daily calorie intake, heightening concerns about the contamination among politicians and the public.
