The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned the public not to buy flood-damaged drinks, following a recent seizure of such products in Accra.
The products, including bottled water and soft drinks, were allegedly being washed and repackaged for sale at a residence in Bubiashie, after the shop of a beverage distributor at Alajo was flooded.
FDA Seizes Flood-Damaged Drinks
According to a press release signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, the products were found covered in mud, with both the bottles and their packaging visibly affected by floodwater. The Authority stated that the products were seized for safe disposal.
Floodwater Carries Contaminants
The FDA warned that floodwater carried sewage, refuse, and other contaminants, and that washing the outside of a bottle or a shrink-wrapped pack does not render the contents safe. "Washing the outside of a bottle or a shrink-wrapped pack does not render the contents safe, as caps, seals and packaging are easily compromised when products are submerged in floodwater," the statement said.
Risks of Consuming Flood-Damaged Drinks
The Authority cautioned that consuming such products posed a significant risk of cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery and other water-borne diseases. "Any food or drink stock affected by floodwater, whether at home or in shops, should be safely disposed of," the statement added.
Public Warned to Avoid Purchasing Flood-Damaged Drinks
The FDA advised consumers to avoid purchasing products with mud stains, watermarks, or labels that are stained, peeling or discoloured. It also urged the public to be wary of products sold from unusual locations or hawked in bulk without a clear source, and to purchase beverages only from reputable and licensed outlets.
FDA Empowered to Seize and Prosecute Offenders
Under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), no person shall sell, offer for sale, or distribute food that is contaminated, unwholesome or otherwise unfit for human consumption. The FDA stated that it is empowered to seize such products and prosecute offenders.
What's Next
The FDA will continue surveillance and enforcement activities in flood-affected areas to protect public health and safety. It encourages members of the public to report the sale of flood-affected food and drinks to the FDA, the police, or through the Authority's official contact numbers, 0551112224 and 0551112225.
Source: Joy Online
