Market Withdrawal: Chips Contaminated with Engine Oil

Fried Potatoes: A Global Favorite with Hidden Risks

When it comes to foods that unite millions across various demographics, fried potatoes, especially in their chip form, stand out.
These snack items enjoy immense popularity worldwide, yet health professionals urge for mindful consumption.
Medical experts recommend precautions, particularly for individuals with health issues or specific dietary requirements, to safeguard their well-being.

A pressing concern that affects all consumers is the potential contamination of fries with harmful substances during production or frying.
This critical stage requires producers to attentively follow legal precautions to prevent any toxicity.
While home cooks primarily worry about oil temperature and quality, industrial preparation demands a much higher level of diligence.

Contamination Scandal: Intersnack Poland

Recently, Intersnack Poland faced a serious incident involving the withdrawal of several snack packages contaminated with motor oil.
Thankfully, the contamination was swiftly identified and addressed.
Only 32 affected batches, which had already entered the market, were recalled.
The products, due to expire in early 2025, were mainly sold in Poland, heightening the urgency for consumers to refrain from consuming them.

The recalled varieties included Przysnacki Chips Kotle with various flavors, such as sea salt and roasted red pepper, alongside specific lot numbers and expiration dates.
Laboratory analyses revealed alarming levels of aromatic hydrocarbons and saturated mineral oils in some of the batches, which can pose health risks.

Concluding Thoughts on Food Safety

Only the aforementioned lot numbers are affected by this contamination; all other products from Intersnack remain safe for consumption.
The source of contamination has been traced back to the lubricating oil used in machinery maintenance, although the precise migration process of these substances is still unclear.
Although unexpected, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance regarding food safety.