Omanghana
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in Ghana’s Upper West Region has safely destroyed a large quantity of expired, banned, and unregistered products valued at GH₵41,027 as part of efforts to protect consumers from unsafe goods.
The disposal exercise was carried out on Friday, July 17, 2026, following a series of market surveillance operations conducted by the FDA across the region to identify and remove products that posed potential risks to public health.
Banned Skin-Lightening Products Among Items Destroyed
A significant portion of the confiscated items consisted of banned skin-lightening cosmetics containing hydroquinone.
The FDA maintains a strict prohibition on the sale of over-the-counter hydroquinone-based skin-lightening products because of the serious health risks associated with misuse.
According to health experts, prolonged or improper use of such products may lead to complications including:
- Chemical burns
- Facial swelling
- Permanent skin discoloration known as ochronosis
The FDA has repeatedly warned traders against stocking or selling these products due to their potential harm to consumers.
Expired Foods, Medicines, and Unregistered Products Seized
Beyond cosmetics, the destroyed items included a range of other unsafe and unauthorized goods, including:
- Expired food products
- Unwholesome mixed drinks
- Substandard medical devices
- Unregistered orthodox medicines
The FDA said these products had entered the market without meeting required safety and regulatory standards.
Protecting Consumers From Unsafe Goods
FDA officials explained that the enforcement exercise was aimed at preventing dishonest traders from selling expired or dangerous products to unsuspecting consumers.
The authority noted that vulnerable communities, particularly in rural areas, are often at greater risk of being exposed to unsafe goods due to limited access to regulatory information and inspection services.
FDA Warns Traders Against Selling Expired Products
Following the destruction exercise, the FDA urged wholesalers and retailers with expired stock to voluntarily report and surrender such items for proper disposal.
The authority warned that attempts to sell expired or altered products would attract serious consequences.
Under Section 132 of Ghana’s Public Health Act, individuals found intentionally displaying or selling expired, adulterated, or unsafe consumer products may face regulatory penalties and criminal prosecution.
Consumers Urged to Check Products Carefully
The FDA also called on consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing goods from markets, shops, and roadside vendors.
Shoppers are encouraged to:
- Check expiry dates before buying products
- Confirm “best before” labels where applicable
- Avoid swollen, dented, or damaged canned goods
- Stay away from products without proper labeling
The FDA emphasized that consumer awareness and cooperation remain critical in the fight against unsafe products and protecting public health across Ghana.
Source: Omanghana
