By Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako
Authorities in Ghana have launched investigations into allegations that some producers may be adding pieces of plastic or polystyrene while frying plantain chips, raising serious public health concerns.
The warning was issued by the Food and Drugs Authority after a widely circulated social media video appeared to show individuals placing plastic materials into hot cooking oil while preparing the popular snack.
According to the FDA, laboratory testing and market surveillance are already underway to determine whether polystyrene is being deliberately used to enhance the crispness and shelf life of plantain chips.
In a public notice, the authority warned that any person or business found engaging in the practice could face prosecution and possible permanent closure of their operations.
Food safety experts say heating plastic in cooking oil does not simply melt the material but can lead to chemical transformations that may release harmful substances.
Scientists warn that if chemicals from melted plastic are lipophilic (fat-loving), they can dissolve easily in oil and migrate into the food being cooked.
Some of the major health concerns linked to exposure to chemicals from heated plastics include:
Oxidative stress
Inflammation
Endocrine disruption affecting hormones
Exposure to chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) that may interfere with metabolism and reproductive health
While the chips produced through such a method may appear equally crispy, experts say the greater concern lies in potential chemical contamination of the food.
GhanaNewsOnline and News Volta will continue to monitor developments surrounding the investigation, stressing that the health and safety of the public remain a major concern.
Authorities have also encouraged the public to report suspicious food preparation practices to regulators to help protect consumers and maintain food safety standards across the country.
Source News Volta
