The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has issued a warning to residents, urging caution in the purchase of fried plantains, commonly known as ‘Plantain Chips’, following reports of unwholesome practices in the processing and frying of the popular snack.
News About Nigeria gathered that the alert was prompted by a viral online picture that captured a plantain chips seller allegedly adding polythene, commonly referred to as ‘rubber’, to the hot vegetable oil used for frying.
LASCOPA expressed deep concern about the potential health hazards associated with such practices and emphasised the need for consumers to exercise caution.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, LASCOPA urged residents to be vigilant about the source of their plantain chips to avoid unwittingly exposing themselves to harmful substances or preventable food poisoning.
The agency pointed out the seriousness of the matter and assured the public that an investigation into the discovery was underway.
The statement read, “The Agency is presently investigating this discovery and will take appropriate actions to protect consumers and hold accountable those responsible for the dangerous practice.”
LASCOPA also called on the public to assist in reporting unfriendly and unlawful practices among sellers of consumable items that could pose risks to consumer health.
The agency provided contact information for residents to report such incidents and seek assistance.
“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 lascopa@lagosstate.gov.ng or lasgcopa@gmail.com or through the following phone numbers: 08124993885, 09064323154, and 08092509777,” the statement read.
