FDA cracks down on unregistered diapers at Ho Market

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken action against unregistered diaper brands being sold at the Ho Market in the Volta Region.

The operation sought to rid the market of counterfeit products that pose potential health risks to consumers, particularly children. The Volta Regional Director of the FDA, Gordon Akurugu, led a joint team of officials from the Authority and the Ghana Police Service to carry out the exercise on Thursday morning.

Acting on a well-coordinated strategy, the team inspected and raided several shops, leading to the discovery and seizure of multiple unregistered diaper products suspected to be fake.

Among the brands confiscated were Santi, Amanda, Rouyay, Sael, 4ever Cotton, Maya, Smart, and Jasper New, which were found displayed for sale in various shops. The seized items were transported to the FDA’s Regional Office in collaboration with the police for further investigations and possible legal action.

Mr. Akurugu noted that the affected traders would assist the police in tracing the sources of the products, including their suppliers and manufacturers.

“It is crucial to determine the origin of these goods. Many of the diapers on the market lack proper labeling, making it impossible for the FDA to assure their safety and quality,” he stated.

He also suggested that the products may have been smuggled into the country through the porous Ghana-Togo border, which has numerous unapproved entry routes.

He warned that individuals found to have breached the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851) would face the full rigours of the law and the appropriate sanctions.