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NAFDAC investigates alleged use of poisonous polythene in plantain chip production
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control(NAFDAC) has launched a thorough investigation into a disturbing social media post that alleges a woman used oil adulterated with polythene in frying plantain chips.
In an official statement released on Saturday, NAFDAC’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, emphasized the agency’s dedication to public health and outlined a science-based approach to verify the claims before taking any necessary action.
The attention-grabbing post suggests that a woman melted about five pieces of “olonka rubber” (polythene) into oil before grating plantains to make chips.
NAFDAC acknowledged the seriousness of the allegation but noted that the post began circulating before the date of the supposed observation, and its geographical location remains unspecified.
“The agency is taking a science-based approach in her response to the alleged claim and will conduct necessary laboratory investigation into the claim. In the meantime, our advice to the public who consume NAFDAC regulated food products remains the same and centres around being vigilant as consumers,” the statement clarified.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians purchasing its regulated food products to exercise vigilance and caution, emphasizing the importance of choosing reputable sources and checking for NAFDAC registration numbers on product labels.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC investigates alleged under dosed paracetamol tablets sold in Nigeria
Additionally, consumers were warned against products exhibiting suspicious packaging, objectionable smell/color, or unrealistically low prices.
In a related development, the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency issued a cautionary statement, echoing concerns about potential unwholesome practices in processing plantains for sale, particularly fried plantains commonly known as “plantain chips.”
This advisory aligns with the social media report where an individual claimed to have witnessed a woman melting polythene into hot oil used for frying plantains to harden the chips.
As investigations unfold, both agencies remain committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of food products in the market.
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