BY Nadia Ntiamoah
The Food and Drugs Authority Ghana has launched a nationwide investigation following reports and viral social media videos alleging that some vendors are using plastic materials while frying plantain chips to enhance crispiness and prolong shelf life.
In a statement issued on March 11, 2026, the Authority said it had begun extensive market surveillance and laboratory testing of plantain chips across various parts of the country to verify the claims and protect public health.
According to the FDA, the reports suggest that some vendors may be melting polyethylene plastics into frying oil during the preparation of plantain chips. The Authority described the alleged practice as dangerous and warned that it constitutes direct chemical contamination of food products.
“The Food and Drugs Authority has noted with grave concern videos and reports circulating on social media alleging the use of polyethylene (plastic) in frying plantain chips to improve the crispiness and shelf-life of the product,” the statement noted.
The Authority explained that introducing plastic materials such as Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) into hot cooking oil can trigger chemical migration, where harmful compounds from the plastic leach into the food during the frying process.
According to the FDA, the high temperatures involved in frying accelerate the release of substances such as plasticizers, phthalates and antioxidants from the plastic into the oil and subsequently into the food consumed by the public.
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to these chemicals through contaminated food may pose serious health risks. The FDA cited scientific research linking long-term ingestion of such substances to endocrine disruption, hormonal imbalances and an increased risk of certain cancers.
The Authority has therefore issued a strong warning to food vendors and processors against the use of non-food-grade materials in food preparation.
Citing Section 100 of the Public Health Act 2012 Act 851 Ghana, the FDA stressed that the sale of contaminated or unwholesome food products is a criminal offence under Ghanaian law.
“Any person found engaging in this practice will face the full rigours of the law, including prosecution and the possible permanent closure of their business,” the statement warned.
Consumers have also been advised to remain cautious when purchasing plantain chips. The FDA urged the public to avoid products that emit unusual chemical smells, have a plastic-like aftertaste or show little change in texture over time, which could indicate contamination.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the Authority said it is collaborating with local authorities and the Ghana Police Service to monitor and inspect vendors suspected of engaging in the alleged practice.
Food processors have also been reminded to comply strictly with Good Manufacturing Practices and to obtain the required Food Hygiene and Vendor Permits issued by the FDA before operating.
The FDA assured the public that updates will be provided once laboratory tests from the nationwide surveillance exercise are completed and encouraged consumers to report suspicious food preparation practices through its official reporting channels.
