E/R: FDA destroys 2.5 tons of unwholesome products

Residents of the Eastern Region witnessed a significant public health intervention as the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) safely disposed of approximately 2.5 tons of unwholesome products.

The exercise was conducted with the consent of product owners and under strict supervision.

The items destroyed included a wide range of products, drugs, cosmetics, canned foods, beverages, and medical equipment confiscated from information centres, supermarkets, over-the-counter medicine sellers, food retail joints, and pubs across the region.

The disposal exercise took place at the Akwadum dumping site near Koforidua, under tight security and expert monitoring to ensure public safety.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Anita Owusu-Kuffour, the Eastern Regional Head of the FDA, emphasized the Authority’s mandate to ensure the safety of all products under its regulatory scope. She noted that while the FDA actively monitors market products, manufacturers and vendors also have the responsibility to report unsafe or expired goods for safe disposal.

“The FDA seeks the services of the management of the landfill site and uses appropriate equipment to burn, bury, crush, or churn the non-conforming products to prevent the activities of scavengers,” she explained.

Specialized equipment, including excavators and bulldozers, was deployed during the destruction process to ensure thorough and environmentally safe disposal.

Owusu-Kuffour reiterated the FDA’s broader role in protecting public health by ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of human and veterinary medicines, vaccines, medical devices, and biological products. The Authority also regulates the safety of Ghana’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and tobacco products.

The FDA’s latest operation underscores its ongoing commitment to ridding the market of harmful goods and ensuring consumer safety across the country.