The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched nationwide market surveillance and laboratory testing of plantain chips following allegations that some vendors are using melted plastic during frying to enhance crispiness and shelf life.

The move follows videos circulating on social media suggesting that polythene materials are being added to hot cooking oil during the preparation of the snack.

In a statement, the FDA described the alleged practice as dangerous, explaining that heating plastics such as low-density polyethylene in oil can release harmful chemicals into the food, posing potential health risks to consumers.

The Authority warned that the use of non-food-grade substances, including plastics, in food preparation violates Section 100 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851) and constitutes a criminal offence. Offenders could face prosecution and closure of their businesses.

The FDA urged the public to report suspicious practices and said results of ongoing laboratory tests will be made public once investigations are completed.