Ban on Takeaways: Indomie Sellers Fear Price Hikes as Leaf Traders Push Return to Tradition

Street food vendors in parts of Accra say the coming ban on styrofoam (take away) could push up their costs and force them to raise prices. Traditional leaf traders, however, see an opening and are urging the vendors to wrap meals in leaves again, according to a report by Graphic Online.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced a ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products. Enforcement begins on January 1, 2027. The ban covers takeaway containers, disposable cups and plates, and other foam packaging. The EPA has directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors and hospitality businesses to switch to reusable, recyclable or environmentally friendly alternatives before the deadline.

At the Kyeiwaa Indomie Joint in Adabraka Old Timers, vendor Comfort Boadi said the cost of replacement packs could force her to add GH¢5 to her meals. A GH¢30 serving would rise to GH¢35, and a GH¢40 serving to GH¢45.

She said the market already offers paper, black polypropylene plastic and foil-lined gold packs, but at prices that worry sellers. A bundle of 25 gold packs costs GH¢100, while 40 black packs cost GH¢70. Some customers now clean and reuse the gold packs to avoid paying extra for packaging, she added. Vendors are weighing whether to build the cost into meal prices or charge for packs separately.

Ms. Boadi said she has begun telling customers about the ban and the likely price changes, but many dismiss it as something that will never happen. She hopes pack prices will fall before January and appealed to manufacturers not to raise them.

Other vendors raised similar concerns. Maame Esi, who has sold Indomie at Circle for eight years, said some alternative packs sell for GH¢150 to GH¢200 a bundle, with fewer than 50 pieces each, which strains small operators. She called for wider public education and for manufacturers to produce affordable paper packs.

At the Odawna Taxi Rank, Maame Mother, a vendor of ten years, said she has heard of the ban but has not changed her packaging because she doubts it will be enforced. She asked manufacturers to supply about 100 packs per bundle at an affordable price. Amonua Ampem, who sells near Roxy Cinema in Adabraka, said she had not heard of the ban at all, and many vendors around Circle said the same. Sellers at Kingsway urged the authorities to engage manufacturers on pricing.

At the Central Market, leaf traders welcomed the ban. Priscilla Armah, who has traded in leaves for six years, said more Indomie sellers are now buying from her, joining beans, rice, banku and tilapia vendors. “Let us go back to our roots,” she said.

Ms. Armah rejected the claim that leaves are always expensive, saying prices follow the season. A bundle of about 28 leaves currently sells for GH¢5 but can reach GH¢20 in January, when supply is thin. She said the leaves come from Prestea, Kwahu and Kumasi, as well as the Avatime and Alavanyo areas of the Volta Region.

Fellow trader Maame Tawiah said food was once served in leaves and earthenware bowls before takeaway packs became popular, and questioned when the authorities decided the packs were a problem.

Some vendors have doubts about the switch. Ms. Boadi noted that leaves must be bought daily and lose freshness by the next day. Maame Esi questioned how Indomie could be wrapped conveniently in leaves. Ms. Boadi did acknowledge that leaves could make meals cheaper if vendors manage the transition well.

Share your tip, lead, or report with our newsroom. GhanaFeed is committed to fearless, independent journalism — and your information helps us tell the stories that matter.

Join the GhanaFeed Newsroom — We Are Growing.

Are you a journalist, writer, or community voice with a passion for truth? GhanaFeed is actively seeking passionate individuals to join our growing network of contributors. Whether you are a seasoned reporter, a writer with something to say, or simply someone with their ear to the ground — there is a place for you in our newsroom. We believe great journalism is not the preserve of a few; it is built by many voices, from every corner of Ghana and beyond.

If you believe in holding power accountable, amplifying unheard voices, and telling the stories that mainstream media too often ignores — GhanaFeed is your platform. We offer a credible, growing digital stage for your work, and a newsroom culture rooted in integrity, boldness, and impact. Reach out today and let’s build fearless journalism together.

GHANAFEED  ·  Fearless Journalism

Emmanuel Frimpong Emmanuel Frimpong is the Managing Editor of GhanaFeed.Com.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email and website in this browser for the next time I comment.