The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the consumption of adulterated foods, amid a concerning rise in food tampering incidents.
Recent investigations have uncovered disturbing practices where certain individuals are adding unauthorized substances to food products, compromising their safety and quality.
One notable example involves palm oil, which may exhibit an unusually reddish hue due to the addition of Sudan IV dye. Similarly, powdered pepper has been found to be adulterated with various substances to enhance color or increase quantity.
Rakiatu Mohammed, a trader specializing in powdered pepper, confirmed these practices, highlighting methods such as mixing pepper with unauthorized additives like pear leaves or gari to cut costs and increase profitability.
Roderick Daddey-Adjei, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, emphasized the importance of food safety, urging all Ghanaians to exercise caution in their food choices. He referenced Public Health Act 851, which addresses food adulteration and fraud, underscoring the need for vigilance in safeguarding public health.
In light of these findings, the FDA urges consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food products to ensure the integrity of the food supply chain and protect public health.
