ALERT: Lagos Govt Asks Residents To Avoid ‘Poisonous’ Plantain Chips

• Some plantain chip sellers were accused of using a dangerous ingredient.

• It was not immediately clear which state the sellers reside in. 

• But the Lagos government has taken aproactive step to protect its residents.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has cautioned consumers of fried plantains popularly known as “Plantain Chips” to be aware of any unwholesome practices in the processing and frying of the plantain for sale.

The agency made the alert in a statement issued on Tuesday.

It stated that the advice was necessary given the viral online picture posted by an eyewitness showing a “plantain chips” seller allegedly adding Polythene known as “Rubber” into the hot vegetable oil used for frying the plantain.

“LASCOPA expresses deep concern about the health implications this may have on consumers,” the statement reads in part.

In light of this alarming discovery, the agency, therefore, advised all consumers to exercise caution and be vigilant about where they purchase their plantain chips in order not to ignorantly expose themselves to any harmful substances or preventable food poisoning.

LASOCOPA revealed that it is presently investigating this discovery and will take appropriate actions to protect consumers and hold accountable those responsible for the dangerous practice.

Meanwhile, the agency urged members of the public to assist in calling the attention of appropriate government agencies, including LASCOPA, to all unfriendly and unlawful practices among sellers of consumable items that can put the health of consumers at risk.

LASCOPA is located at No 2B, Soji Adepegba Close off Allen Avenue Ikeja with Annex offices situated within Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Bariga LCDA, Ikorodu Local Government and Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA.

The agency can also be contacted via email at [email protected] or [email protected] or through the following phone numbers: 08124993885, 09064323154, and 08092509777.

Last Friday, an X user identified as ‘Healthy Eating With Nazo’ had claimed that they saw some people melt white polythene, also known as ‘olonka rubber’, in the hot oil used for frying plantain chips.

The X user said they were told the substance was used to harden the chips and make it firm and crunchy.

“Some people frying plantain chips and before putting the grated plantain into the hot oil they melt about white polythene what we call ‘olonka rubber’ into the oil,” the post read.

“I was told that it is done to harden the chips so it doesn’t break. Oh my God!!!!! I couldn’t believe my ears.

“I then went on to ask what is the reason they said for it to always remain firm and crunchy

“With the rate of cancer, people still do this for their selfish interest and gain.”

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