FDA launches nationwide checks over alleged use of Melted plastic in plantain Chips

The Food and Drugs Authority (Ghana) has begun nationwide market surveillance and laboratory testing of plantain chips following allegations that some vendors are melting plastic into frying oil to make the product crispier and extend its shelf life.

The move follows videos and reports circulating on social media suggesting that polythene materials are being added to hot cooking oil during the preparation of plantain chips, raising serious concerns about food safety.

In a statement, the Authority described the alleged practice as dangerous, warning that melting plastic in frying oil amounts to direct chemical contamination of food and makes the product unsafe for human consumption.

According to the FDA, heating plastic materials such as low-density polyethylene in oil at high temperatures can cause harmful chemical substances to migrate into the food.

The Authority explained that the process accelerates the release of chemicals such as plasticisers, phthalates and antioxidants into the oil, posing potential toxicological risks to consumers.

It further noted that scientific studies link the long-term ingestion of such chemicals to endocrine disruption, hormonal imbalances and an increased risk of certain cancers.

The FDA stressed that the practice violates provisions of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the sale of contaminated or unwholesome food.

“Pursuant to Section 100 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), the use of any non-food-grade additive, including plastics, in food preparation is a criminal offence. Any person found engaging in this practice will face the full rigours of the law, including prosecution and permanent closure of their business,” the statement said.

The Authority has also urged consumers to remain vigilant and report suspicious food preparation practices, particularly where plantain chips have an unusual chemical smell, a plastic-like aftertaste, or maintain the same texture for an unusually long period.

The FDA added that results of the ongoing laboratory tests will be made public once investigations are completed.