The Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C\&BFPMAN) has dismissed claims that its members use cement to preserve beans.
Speaking in Lagos on Sunday, the association’s National President, Mr. Kabir Shuaibu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that none of their members engages in such harmful practices. His reaction followed a viral video showing some boys allegedly mixing beans with cement.
Shuaibu stressed that the association adheres strictly to international best practices in food preservation. He explained that farmers no longer use chemical additives but rely on thick nylon liners inside sacks to keep beans airtight and safe from insects.
He added that in some cases, farmers use safe preservation methods such as Topstoxin— a harmless additive applied in small quantities — or dried peppers placed inside bags to ward off weevils.
“The idea of using cement is unrealistic,” he said. “Consumers would immediately detect it, and no genuine farmer would risk destroying trust in the market.”
Shuaibu reiterated that the association is committed to ensuring that Nigerian beans remain safe and fit for both local consumption and international markets.