The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has issued a firm denial against renewed claims circulating in the country about the sale of ‘plastic rice,’ assuring citizens that the staple grain on the market is safe for consumption.
The authority took to its official Twitter platform to directly address the viral rumors, which have sparked anxiety among consumers and traders alike. Using straightforward scientific reasoning, the FDA sought to dismantle the pervasive myth.
“We have observed renewed claims about ‘plastic rice’ on the market. We wish to assure the public that these claims are false. Scientifically, plastic cannot absorb water, therefore it cannot cook like real rice,” the agency stated.
A Recurring Threat to Public Confidence
The “plastic rice” rumor is a recurring phenomenon in Ghana and across West Africa, often surfacing during peak market seasons or periods of economic uncertainty. The claims are typically fueled by social media videos showing individuals performing unverified tests, such as attempting to burn rice or mold it into shapes, which they claim “proves” it is made from synthetic materials.
These rumors can have a tangible impact, causing panic buying of specific brands, a sharp decline in rice sales, and significant financial losses for legitimate traders.
FDA Explains the Science, Urges Calm
In its statement, the Ghana FDA highlighted the fundamental scientific flaw in the plastic rice theory. Authentic rice, a natural grain, is highly absorbent and softens when boiled. Plastic, however, behaves entirely differently.
“The properties of plastic are incompatible with those of real rice. Beyond not absorbing water, plastic would melt, emit a strong acrid smell, and create an inedible mess if subjected to the heat of cooking. It would be immediately obvious to any consumer, making a widespread deception impossible.”
A Call for Vigilance and Official Reporting
While firmly dismissing the plastic rice myth, the Authority did not dismiss the public’s concern for food safety outright. They acknowledged the need for constant vigilance against all forms of food adulteration.
The FDA encouraged the public to channel their concerns through official channels. “We urge consumers to be watchful for any genuine signs of food fraud or contamination,” the statement continued. “However, instead of spreading unconfirmed videos, report any specific, credible suspicions directly to the FDA for immediate investigation and action. This allows us to efficiently utilize our resources to protect public health.”
The swift response from FDA Ghana is seen as a critical move to maintain stability in the food market and prevent economic disruption driven by misinformation, reassuring a jittery public with facts and a clear path for legitimate reporting.
