Kano State government has cautioned residents against using artificial food flavours during the Ramadan fast to prevent food poisoning.

The state’s commissioner for health, Dr Aminu Tsanyawa, who said this in Kano, also advised residents to consume natural fruits and vegetables during the fast to maintain their health.

“The government is doing all it can to sanitise all types of food brought to the state and we are very vigilant.

“I call on people to use genuine products and always make sure they check for the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration number and expiry dates,” he said.

Hundreds of people in the state had, in March, suffered from food poisoning due to consumption of contaminated imported food items and drinks.