Producers of plantain chips have taken to the streets in Accra to protest what they describe as “false and damaging” claims that some manufacturers are melting white plastic rubber into hot oil to make the popular snack crispier and longer lasting.
The demonstration follows allegations circulated by a social media user and reportedly discussed on Sompa FM by its presenter Oheneni. The claims quickly gained traction online, sparking outrage among consumers and prompting calls for a nationwide boycott of plantain chips.
While demonstrating the processes of production, the protesters insisted that the allegations are baseless and have already begun affecting sales.
“We use only fresh plantain, vegetable oil, salt and sometimes spices. Nothing more,” said one producer during the protest in Accra. “These claims are not only false but dangerous to our livelihoods.”
Call for Investigation
They have called on the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and other relevant state agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly and publicly clear the industry.
They argue that while consumer safety is paramount, the spread of unverified information has the potential to cripple an industry that employs thousands of Ghanaians, particularly women and youth.
“This is not just about snacks,” another protester said. “It is about families, farmers, transporters and traders who depend on this value chain.”
Threat to Jobs and the Plantain Value Chain
The plantain chips business forms a significant part of Ghana’s agro-processing sector. Ghana is one of the leading producers of plantain in West Africa, producing an estimated over 4 million metric tonnes annually, according to data. A substantial portion of this output is consumed locally, with plantain chips representing one of the most popular processed forms of the crop.
Industry players estimate that the plantain chips value chain from farmers and market women to processors, distributors and retailers, supports tens of thousands of direct and indirect jobs nationwide.
A sharp decline in patronage, they warn, could ripple through the entire agricultural chain. Farmers who supply raw plantain to processors may face reduced demand, leading to post-harvest losses and falling incomes.
Market analysts note that plantain farming is a key income source for rural households across regions such as Ashanti, Eastern, Bono and Western North. Reduced demand for plantain chips could depress farmgate prices, affecting already vulnerable smallholder farmers.
Public Health Concerns
The allegations that white plastic rubber is being melted into frying oil have raised serious public health concerns among consumers, who fear potential long-term health effects if the claims were true.
However, producers insist that adding plastic to hot oil would not only be harmful but impractical and economically irrational.
“Oil is expensive enough. Why would anyone add plastic?” one demonstrator asked. “We are calling on authorities to test our products and publish the results.”
Industry At Risk
Producers say the controversy has already led to reduced sales in some places, with customers expressing hesitation to purchase the snack.
If the situation is not resolved quickly, they warn, small-scale processors, many of whom are women and operate with limited capital, may be forced out of business.
“We are pleading with the public not to rush to judgment,” a spokesperson for the group said. “Let the regulators do their work. This industry feeds families and keeps thousands employed.”
