BBNaija’s Tjay Raises Alarm Over Health Risks of Eating Shawa Fish

Former Big Brother Naija housemate and medical doctor, Tjay, has cautioned Nigerians about the potential health risks associated with consuming shawa, a popular dried fish commonly used in local dishes.

In a video circulating online, Tjay alleged that the fish could contain mould, heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of chemicals he described as potentially cancer-causing.

He also identified the whitish substance sometimes found on the fish as mould, warning that soaking it in water might not completely eliminate potentially harmful substances.

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

Offering precautions to consumers, the doctor recommended soaking the fish for at least one hour before removing its head and skin.

He claimed that approximately 50 per cent of the toxins could be concentrated in the head, urging consumers to discard that part before preparation.

Tjay also advised Nigerians to opt for smaller-sized shawa fish, arguing that they were less likely to contain harmful substances.

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