Contaminated Maize Causes Panic in Zambia After 400 Dogs Die

Zambia is grappling with widespread concern after the deaths of 400 dogs were linked to contaminated maize. Health Minister Elijah Muchima reported that nearly half of the 25 maize samples tested showed dangerously high levels of aflatoxins, a harmful byproduct of mold linked to liver cancer in humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The contaminated maize is believed to have caused the deaths of dogs, and authorities are now investigating the potential risk to human health. Although no human fatalities have been confirmed, the Ministry of Health is working to determine if affected plants have made their way into the food supply. The maize contamination is raising alarm in a country where maize constitutes 60% of the population's daily energy intake, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Authorities have begun seizing and testing maize products from various companies, though specific names have not been disclosed. Diamond TV reported that several dog food products made from maize had been pulled from the market. Muchima attributed the rise in aflatoxins to climate change and drought, which have worsened crop conditions this season.

Amid growing fears, Zambian citizens are demanding transparency, questioning why the government has not publicly named the contaminated maize brands. The Association of New Companies in Zambia is also conducting its own investigations, intensifying product monitoring as the country seeks to address the issue swiftly.

With maize being a staple food for millions of Zambians, the potential impact of this contamination has created widespread concern, with calls for increased inspections and government action to protect public health.