FDA shuts down illegal alcoholic beverage manufacturing facility at Senfi in the bekwai municipality

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in the Ashanti Region has taken action against an illicit alcoholic beverage manufacturing facility located in Senfi, within the Bekwai Municipality. The facility was found to be operating illegally under unhygienic conditions, prompting the FDA to seize materials used in the production of ARCAN Bitters.

Ashanti Regional Director of FDA, Dr. Ashraf Haruna, disclosed that the seized items included 1,500 bottles of ARCAN Bitters, alongside 5,000 empty bottles displaying the product's label and barrels utilized in the manufacturing process.

Dr. Haruna invited the facility's director to cooperate with the ongoing investigation; however, the director has yet to respond. The FDA has indicated that the seized items will be destroyed and will not be permitted for sale on the market. During the investigation, concerns were raised regarding the substances employed in the production of the bitters, particularly the presence of high levels of medication used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Despite previous warnings from the FDA, the manufacturers have allegedly disregarded the directive. Consequently, the FDA has cautioned the public to avoid purchasing or consuming ARCAN Bitters until further notice, emphasizing the potential health risks associated with the product. The FDA's actions are part of broader efforts to safeguard public health and ensure that alcoholic beverages manufactured and sold in the country adhere to stringent safety and regulatory standards.