The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health following allegations that 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to senior high schools under the Free Senior High School programme.

Speaking to Joy FM, the FDA’s Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs, Joseph Yaw-Bernie Bennie, assured that the regulatory body prioritises the health and safety of Ghanaians and would never compromise public well-being, particularly that of children.

The allegations were raised by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who claimed the rice was distributed earlier this year despite its expired “best before” date. Mr Ablakwa has called for the prosecution of directors of Lamens Investments Africa, the company accused of repackaging the expired rice for distribution.

The FDA has since clarified its role in the matter, revealing that it acted after receiving a police complaint regarding unauthorised rice repackaging. Investigations found that Lamens Investments Africa had violated regulatory standards by operating without a licence, repackaging without FDA approval, and failing to follow supervision protocols.

While the rice was initially deemed unfit for consumption, the FDA, working with the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and an Indian laboratory, determined that the product still met safety and quality standards. As a result, the rice’s “best before” date was extended to April 2024, instead of December 2023 as initially proposed by the producers.

The FDA emphasised that it would continue collaborating with law enforcement to ensure that public health standards are upheld and that violations are thoroughly addressed.

Source:TheDotNews