A comprehensive study conducted across all 11 sub-cities of Addis Ababa has uncovered widespread adulteration in raw milk sold to consumers, ranging from plain water dilution to toxic chemicals linked to cancer. The findings were officially disclosed by the Addis Ababa Farmers and Urban Agriculture Development Commission, raising urgent public health concerns across the Ethiopian capital.
Dr. Tsega Lema, Deputy Commissioner of the urban agriculture agency, confirmed that the joint investigation was carried out in close collaboration with regulatory enforcement officers. According to Dr. Tsega, inspectors evaluated neighborhood milk markets and identified an alarming frequency of dangerous foreign substances routinely added to raw milk supplies before reaching households.
The investigation revealed that suppliers frequently dilute milk with water, severely depleting its natural nutritional value. More dangerously, vendors are mixing toxic chemicals into the supply to extend shelf life for four to five days without spoiling—a practice that poses severe health hazards to consumers and exposes the general public to long-term risks, including cancer.
In response to the alarming safety risks, the commission announced that it is drafting a strict new legal framework to tighten regulatory oversight and hold dishonest suppliers accountable. The upcoming regulations aim to enforce stringent quality control checks, penalize illegal chemical preservation, and establish standardized testing procedures across all milk distribution hubs in the capital.
The revelation highlights ongoing enforcement challenges in urban food safety across rapidly expanding metropolitan areas, where informal supply chains often evade standardized health protocols. Health experts strongly advise residents to source dairy from certified distributors while the city administration prepares to roll out its new regulatory measures.