Many people regard brown ponmo as just chaff and it gives nothing to the body. Some even go as far as claiming brown ponmo is cancerous. But is this actually true? Is brown ponmo just a waste in the body? Does it cause cancer when eaten? Is it toxic? Does it contain harmful chemicals? Let’s talk about it.
What Exactly is Brown Ponmo?
Ponmo, or cow skin, is a much-loved delicacy in Nigeria. It’s that chewy, flavorful meat alternative you’ll find in soups, stews, and pepper sauce. But not all ponmo is the same.
White ponmo is usually processed by boiling and scraping, resulting in a softer, cream-colored skin.
Brown ponmo, on the other hand, often gets its dark hue from fire processing, where the skin is singed with flames to remove hair before further cleaning. This burning process is what fuels much of the controversy.
The Cancer Rumor: Where Did It Come From?
The fear around brown ponmo being “cancerous” comes from the burning method of processing. When animal skin is singed directly with firewood, kerosene, tyres, or other improper fuel sources, it can introduce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Now, here’s the science:
PAHs are a group of chemicals formed when organic matter (like wood, coal, or fuel) burns incompletely.
Some PAHs, when consumed in high amounts over a long period, have been linked to cancers, liver damage, and other health issues.
So the problem isn’t that brown ponmo by itself is cancerous. The real issue is how it is processed. If tyres or plastics are used to singe cow skin, harmful residues may cling to the ponmo. That’s where the danger lies.
Nutritional Value: Does Ponmo Really Give “Nothing”?
Another widespread belief is that ponmo has no nutritional value and is basically just “chewing gum” in soup. But is that fair?
Here’s what research says:
Ponmo is low in fat and has fewer calories compared to fatty meats.
It provides collagen, which supports skin elasticity, joint health, and wound healing.
It contains small amounts of protein, though not nearly as much as beef, goat meat, or chicken.
However, ponmo is not a complete protein source. It lacks essential amino acids the body needs. So, while ponmo can be part of a balanced diet, it should never replace actual protein-rich foods. Think of it as a sidekick, for the chicken or beef or ram as the case may be.
Toxicity Concerns: Is Ponmo Safe to Eat?
Brown ponmo itself, when processed correctly, is not toxic. The danger comes when unapproved methods are used:
Burning with tyres or plastics can introduce toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and carcinogens.
Improper washing may leave behind soot and ash.
But when ponmo is processed hygienically—using clean firewood, hot water, or gas flames, followed by thorough scraping and washing—it’s safe to eat. In fact, several food regulatory agencies in Nigeria have emphasized that ponmo is not inherently dangerous; it’s the unsafe handling that makes it risky.
So, Should You Eat Brown Ponmo?
Yes, but with wisdom. Here are a few practical tips:
Know your source – Buy from trusted meat suppliers (like us at Meat Madam), where you’re sure tyres and plastics were not used.
Wash thoroughly – Soak and scrub ponmo well to remove soot before cooking.
Don’t depend on it for protein – Enjoy ponmo for its taste and texture, but balance your diet with proper meat, fish, eggs, or legumes.
Moderation matters – Like every food, excess isn’t necessary. Mix it into soups and stews without making it your only “meat.”
So, instead of dismissing ponmo as waste or fearing it blindly, the key is responsible sourcing and balanced eating.
At Meat Madam, we process our ponmo with strict hygiene, no tyres, no plastics—just clean, safe methods that preserve the flavor you love without the health risks. Order our 2.5kg pack of brown ponmo today and enjoy peace of mind with every bite.