The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has warned consumers of fried plantains also called “plantain chips” to be wary of any unwholesome practices in the processing of the plantains to avoid food poisoning.

The waring is in reaction to a viral post on social media where a user claimed to have witnessed a seller adding polythene, better known as nylon or rubber into a hot oil used for frying plantain to harden the chips.

Expressing concern about the unhealthy practice, the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency in a statement on Tuesday via its X page said, “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.

The Agency is presently investigating this discovery and will take appropriate actions to protect consumers and hold accountable those responsible for the dangerous practice.

Meanwhile, members of the public are urged 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 lascopa@lagosstate.gov.ng or lasgcopa@gmail.com or through the following phone numbers: 08124993885, 09064323154, and 08092509777.”