FDA Investigates Alleged Use of Plastic in Frying Plantain Chips

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched a nationwide investigation into allegations that some vendors are using melted plastic in the preparation of plantain chips, a practice the regulator warns poses serious public health risks.

The move follows an exposé by Kumasi-based radio host Oheneni Adazoa of Sompa FM, whose claims have been widely circulated on social media and triggered public concern about the safety of the popular snack.

In a statement issued on its official X platform on Wednesday, March 11, the FDA said it had taken “grave concern” of videos and reports suggesting that polyethylene — a form of plastic — is being added to frying oil to enhance the crispiness and extend the shelf life of plantain chips.

The Authority said it has begun nationwide market surveillance and laboratory testing of plantain chips to verify the claims and ensure the safety of consumers.

According to the regulator, deliberately melting plastic into frying oil constitutes direct chemical contamination of food, rendering the product unsafe for human consumption.

The FDA explained that introducing plastic materials — particularly Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) — into hot oil could cause harmful chemicals to migrate into the food.

“Hot oil accelerates the leaching of plasticizers, phthalates and antioxidants from the plastic into the food,” the Authority said, warning that prolonged consumption of such contaminated food could have serious health implications.

Citing existing scientific research, the FDA noted that long-term ingestion of these chemicals has been associated with endocrine disruption, hormonal imbalances and an increased risk of certain cancers.

The Authority has therefore issued a strong caution to food vendors, reminding them that such practices violate Section 100 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the sale of unwholesome or contaminated food.

Any vendor found deliberately introducing plastics or other non–food-grade substances into food preparation, the FDA warned, will face prosecution and possible permanent closure of their business.

Consumers have also been urged to remain vigilant when purchasing plantain chips. The Authority advised the public to avoid products that emit an unusual chemical smell, leave a plastic-like aftertaste, or maintain the same texture over a long period without becoming stale.

The FDA said it is collaborating with local authorities and the Ghana Police Service to monitor food vendors and enforce safety regulations.

Reaffirming its mandate to safeguard public health, the Authority urged all food processors and street vendors to comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and obtain the required FDA Food Hygiene and Vendor Permit before operating.

The regulator assured the public that it will provide updates once laboratory results from the ongoing investigation become available. Meanwhile, the public has been encouraged to report any suspicious food preparation practices to the Authority through its official communication channels.

 

 

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