By Chioma Obinna

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, on Saturday, said it is launching an investigation into the reported conversion of polyethylene (rubber) into edible oil.

NAFDAC made this known in a statement by its Resident Media Consultant, Mr. Tayo Akintola.

It said the investigation became necessary following a viral social media report regarding the conversion of polyethylene into edible oil.

The statement reads in part: ”The attention of the management of NAFDAC has been drawn to viral posts making the rounds on social media where an individual was reporting the alleged frying of plantain chips by a woman who, before she grated the plantain into the hot oil, melted about five of the white polyethylene, what we call ‘Olonka rubber’, into the oil.

“NAFDAC is a responsible and responsive regulatory authority guided by science.

“In this regard, 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 a consumer:

1) Purchase from a reputable source.

2) Check for the NAFDAC Registration Number of the product on the label/package as a sign that it is approved by NAFDAC.

3) Stay away from the product if the packaging looks suspect or compromised.

4) Stay away from the product if there is any objectionable smell or colour.

5) Exercise caution if the price at which the product is being offered for sale is much cheaper than similar products.

We use this medium to re-assure the public that the Agency is proactive and remains alive to her responsibilities of safeguarding the health of the public and that a thorough investigation of the alleged claim will be conducted,” the NAFDAC statement added.