The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched an investigation into reports that some vendors are allegedly using polyethylene plastic during the preparation of fried plantain chips, warning that the practice poses serious health risks to consumers.
In a public notice dated March 11, 2026, the authority said it is examining claims that pieces of plastic are being added to hot oil during the frying process of plantain chips, a development that could cause harmful chemicals to contaminate the food.
“We have commenced a nationwide market surveillance and laboratory testing of plantain chips to ascertain the veracity of these claims and protect the health and safety of consumers,” the FDA stated.
According to the authority, heating plastic materials during food preparation can lead to the release of dangerous substances into the food.
The FDA explained that the process may result in the migration of chemicals such as plasticizers, phthalates and antioxidants from the plastic into the fried product.
“Scientific research indicates that long-term ingestion of these migrated chemicals is linked to endocrine disruption, hormonal imbalances, and increased risks of certain cancers,” the notice indicated.
The authority stressed that the use of plastics or any non-food grade materials in food preparation is illegal under Ghanaian law.
“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 offense,” the FDA said.
The regulator also urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing plantain chips. It advised the public to avoid products that have an unusually strong chemical smell, a plastic-like aftertaste, or chips that do not show normal changes in texture over time.
The FDA further called on food processors and vendors to strictly adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices and ensure they obtain the necessary food hygiene and vendor permits from the authority.