FDA seizes flood-damaged drinks, warns public against purchasing washed products

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has seized a significant quantity of flood-damaged bottled water and soft drinks in Accra, warning the public against purchasing such products. The seizure occurred after a shop of a beverage distributor was flooded, leading to consumer complaints about the products being repackaged and sold. FDA investigations revealed the products were contaminated with mud, with bottles and packaging visibly affected by floodwater.

The Ghana Police Service also received complaints and arrested the owner of the products, who was subsequently granted bail. The FDA emphasized that floodwater contains sewage, refuse, and other contaminants, and washing the bottles or packs does not make the contents safe. Consuming such products poses a high risk of water-borne diseases like cholera, typhoid fever, and dysentery.

To prevent this, the FDA advised consumers to avoid products with mud stains, watermarks, or damaged labels, and to purchase beverages only from reputable and licensed outlets. Violations of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits selling contaminated or unfit food, can lead to prosecution. The FDA urged manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to properly dispose of affected stock and notify the nearest FDA office for verification and safe disposal.

The FDA will continue monitoring and enforcing safety in flood-affected areas and encourages the public to report any sale of flood-affected food and drinks through designated channels.