Upper East: The Upper East Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has effectively destroyed expired, unwholesome, unregistered, and non-conforming regulated products valued at GHS522,475.69. These products, which include expired food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, were collected during the first quarter of 2025 through market surveillance conducted by FDA officials across the region.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Abel Ndego, the Acting Regional Head of the FDA, addressed journalists following the safe disposal of the products. He emphasized that the Authority's mission is to protect public health by ensuring that only safe and high-quality products are available to consumers. He stated, "This mission does not end at regulation and enforcement; it extends to responsible disposal of items that pose potential harm. The sale of unregistered regulated products is in contravention of the public health act and considered a crime."
Mr. Ndego elaborated that unregistered products do not meet the FDA's local and international safety, efficacy, and quality standards, and therefore, cannot be sold, distributed, or even given as gifts. He highlighted the public health risks posed by such products and urged consumers to avoid purchasing unregistered items. "All products registered by the Authority have designated registration numbers which patrons or consumers can use as verification for registration. Consumers can also check the Authority's website for the list of registered products to verify the status of products when in doubt," he advised.
He further stressed the health hazards of consuming expired or contaminated products, which could cause food poisoning, severe allergic reactions, and long-term health issues. As "gatekeepers of public health," the FDA is committed to ensuring compliance with the Public Health Act of 2012, Act 851, through inspections, regulatory frameworks, and public engagement.
Mr. Ndego acknowledged the importance of collaboration with business owners, manufacturers, and distributors, urging them to comply with FDA-approved protocols, including product registration, labeling requirements, good manufacturing practices, and adherence to hygiene, storage, and distribution standards. He also encouraged reporting of suspicious activities related to expired goods through the FDA's whistleblower channels.
To bolster enforcement efforts, Mr. Ndego announced plans for increased inspections, collaboration with law enforcement agencies, and public awareness campaigns aimed at empowering citizens to identify and report expired goods. "Let us work together to protect our health, our environment, and our economy," he appealed to stakeholders.
