Health Benefits and Hazard Associated With Eating Ponmo

Ponmo, a widely consumed delicacy in West Africa and among African communities abroad, is also referred to as “Kanda” in Hausa and “Welle” in Ghana. This flavorful part of cow skin is often paired with soups, stews, vegetables, and sauces. It’s also sold as a snack, particularly in beer parlors where it’s enjoyed alongside beverages. ..Read Full Article

A 2024 study in *Science Direct* found that ponmo, along with the water used for soaking it, had a high bacterial load, highlighting the need for vendors to regularly change the soaking water. The presence of E. coli raises concerns of possible fecal contamination, which can lead to food poisoning, typhoid, and other health risks.

Poor hygiene in cattle rearing often results in infections and conditions such as mastitis, with local herders sometimes using dangerous antibiotics instead of proper care. Consequently, ponmo may pose health risks due to chemical contamination and skin diseases. Health experts caution that thorough cleaning and cooking may not fully eliminate pollutants or kill harmful microorganisms.

The process of melting cow hair also exposes the skin to toxic substances like metals, tires, and engine oil, polluting the environment. While some vendors burn cowhide, others use chemicals to soak it for a thicker texture. Foodborne illness outbreaks have been associated with improperly handled dried foods.

In 2019, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a warning about the potential chemical contamination of animal skin, and in February 2022, concerns arose over the spread of tainted ponmo in Lagos, Nigeria.

Despite the risks, ponmo does offer some nutritional benefits. It is rich in collagen, which promotes healthy, firm, and youthful skin. Collagen also strengthens bones by preventing bone density loss, essential for maintaining a strong skeletal structure, particularly as we age.

Ponmo is also a good source of phosphorus and calcium, two key minerals that are vital for building and maintaining strong bones, helping to prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Additionally, ponmo is high in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting regular bowel movements, which is important for maintaining gut health.

According to a 2024 study in *Science Direct*, the wet white variety of ponmo is the most nutritious, offering fiber, protein, and fat. However, all types can serve as a good energy source. The *Al-Qadisiyah Journal for Agricultural Sciences (QJAS)* outlines ponmo’s nutritional composition, which includes moisture, energy, protein, fat, and ash. Key minerals found in ponmo include phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium, with levels ranging from 0.40 to 14.80 mg/100 g.

While ponmo contains valuable nutrients, it must be properly preserved, cleaned, and handled during production, storage, and cooking to ensure safety……Read Full Article