The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned the public against a viral video circulating on social media, which appears to show beans being preserved using a white powdery substance believed to be concrete cement.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Delali Kpodonu, Director of Food Safety at the FDA, said: “The practice shown in this video is not part of Ghanaian agricultural or food preservation methods. It is unsafe, unhygienic, and contrary to approved food safety standards.”
The Plant Protection and Regulation Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture does not recommend or endorse such methods, Dr. Kpodonu added. A review of the video showed chemicals being applied without protective gear, direct contact with food using bare hands, and someone standing on a heap of beans without any protective clothing.
“The use of unapproved substances and poor hygiene practices can compromise public health,” Dr. Kpodonu said.
“We advise farm produce aggregators and retailers to refrain from engaging in or promoting such unsafe practices. Consumers should report any suspicious food handling to the FDA for investigation.”
The FDA reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all food products on the Ghanaian market meet approved safety and quality standards.
“We remain dedicated to safeguarding public health and protecting consumers from unsafe food practices,” Dr. Kpodonu concluded.
