Like a myth, there is a saying according to which in Cameroon, traders use chemical products, even toxic sometimes, to extend the freshness of their food products, fish and beef notably.

According to some people, Fish last long on stalls when flies don’t land on them. Because of this, some sellers spray chemical compositions on them to keep those flies away. But, is it this really true?

The sub-prefect of Yagoua, in the Far-North, published a statement on June 11, 2019, confirming the fact.  In the statement, the authority asked sellers to stop spraying toxic products commonly called pia-pia on fishes to allegedly keep flies away.  He indicated that those who continue with such practice would be prosecuted.

Robert Mve, a vet in Yaoundé, gives a tip to fish and meat buyers to help them identify those sprayed with toxic products.  “Beware when you notice that fish and meat sold in markets are not attracting flies,” he said.

S.A