Sixteen food service establishments in the Greater Accra Region have been closed by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for operating without valid Food Hygiene Permits, two weeks after regulators issued a public ultimatum.

The enforcement action follows a prior notice by the Authority that, effective February 1, 2026, all food vendors and restaurants without the required certification would face closure.

Confirming the development, the regulator stated: “2 weeks after our notice to the public that, effective 1st February 2026, all food service establishments operating without a valid Food Hygiene Permit would be closed, we have taken action.”

Among the affected businesses are The Cheesecake House, Dolce Frizzante, Onda and Alora Beach Resort, alongside several other eateries found to be non-compliant during inspections.

“Today, 16 non-compliant food service establishments in Greater Accra Region, including The Cheesecake House, Dolce Frizzante, Onda, Alora Beach Resort amongst others were shut down for failing to meet regulatory requirements,” the Authority announced in a statement.

The closures form part of a renewed enforcement drive aimed at compelling food operators to meet statutory hygiene standards and secure the appropriate permits before serving the public.

The FDA underscored that the action was not merely punitive but part of its broader public health mandate.

“We remain committed to protecting public health and ensuring that all food service providers operate in strict compliance with good hygiene practices,” it said.

The move signals a tougher regulatory posture by the Authority, particularly in urban centres where food establishments continue to proliferate. Under Ghana’s public health regulations, all food service operators are required to obtain a Food Hygiene Permit after meeting specified safety and sanitation standards.

Industry players are expected to regularise their documentation promptly to avoid further sanctions as inspections continue across the region.