11/05/2026
TURKEY TAIL, CHOFI or DORKUGBI — delicious, affordable, and popular with travellers across Ghana, but far from nutritious.
Chofi is loved for its inviting aroma, juicy meat, and satisfying taste. But there is a health side worth paying attention to.
Turkey tail is very high in fat, with a large share of its calories coming from fat. Frequent and high consumption of Chofi and other high-fat foods is associated with obesity, high cholesterol, heart disease, and some cancers.
According to University of Michigan researcher Sela Panapasa, the part commonly called turkey tail has an oil-producing gland that helps the bird groom its feathers.
This is what accounts for the high fat content in the Chofi. But what can make Chofi even less healthy is the common method of preparation which is deep frying.
When cooking oil is heated over and over again, harmful compounds and trans fats can form. This chemicals are also reportedly linked to poor health outcomes. That means each serving of
Chofi you consume may combine very high fat content with repeatedly heated oil.
So the critical issue at hand and why you should be worried if it’s your favorite, is not only what is being eaten, but also how it is prepared.
Chofi or Dorkugbi as Voltarians call it must be eaten with caution.
Make informed choices for your long-term health.
