Fatbergs from TT washing ashore in UK

According to an article in London’s Daily Mail, fatbergs which are lumps of congealed palm oil derived from the pulp of the fruit of African, American and Maripa palms, can prove fatal to dogs.

Veterinarians warned that dogs could die if they ate the white or yellow waxy blobs, and also cautioned to steer sandcastle-building and rock-pooling children away from them. They said dogs, which would pick up anything on the beach, from pebbles to food, loved the distinct smell in the fatbergs, which were covered in deadly germs, and would not hesitate to chow down on the blobs.

The vets explained that since the palm oil was so gelatinous, it could get lodged in the oesophagus and the dog would require surgery to have it removed.

Dog owners were warned to keep their pets away from the fatbergs, and that they should seek help from their nearest vet if they thought the animal had ingested the substance.

Fatbergs could also contain face wipes, disposable diapers, sanitary items and condoms, which did not break down like toilet paper. When contacted yesterday, chairman of the Environmental Management Authority, Nadra Nathai-Gyan, said she could not comment on Trinidad being one of the sources of the fatbergs because this was the first time she was hearing about it.

Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat also said he had no knowledge about this phenomenon, but asked that the information be sent to him so he could further investigate. The minister told Newsday later that upon investigation, the fatbergs were in no way connected to Trinidad